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Analyzing Changes in Children’s Activities: 2023 to 2025

In a compelling study conducted by the Hakuhodo Education Foundation’s Children Research Institute, an intriguing evolution in the activities of elementary and junior high school students has been observed between 2023 and 2025. This longitudinal survey, titled "Kodomo Teiten 2025," aimed to capture the gradual shifts in children's experiences, values, and self-perception following the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With 2,400 participants ranging from 4th graders to 3rd-year junior high students across Japan, this ongoing research seeks to document how children's lives are transforming over time. As we delve into the findings, we note significant trends that reflect a gradual return to pre-pandemic experiences, particularly regarding outings and leisure activities.

Increasing Interest in Outings and Experiences

The survey results revealed a notable increase in children’s engagement with outdoor activities and experiences. The top three activities that saw a score increase included:
1. Watching movies (+5.1 points)
2. Going on domestic trips (+5.0 points)
3. Visiting shopping malls and leisure spots (+3.6 points)

This shift indicates a heightened enthusiasm among children for outings as they seek to reconnect with the world around them. The first survey was conducted shortly after the transition of COVID-19 to a lower severity category in May 2023 and reflected that children's activities have steadily begun to increase over these three years. The path toward re-engaging with the world outside their homes took a considerable amount of time, suggesting a cautious yet determined return to a more active lifestyle.

Decline in Reading Activities

Conversely, certain activities related to reading have seen a decline. Key statistics from the survey highlighted:
1. Attending online classes at school or tutoring (-5.0 points)
2. Reading magazines (-4.9 points)
3. Reading books other than comics or magazines (-4.4 points)
4. Reading comics (-3.0 points)

These findings suggest a concerning trend where reading, previously a core part of children's daily lives, is now on the decline. Traditional reading materials are being set aside as children lean toward experiences that engage them more directly.

Gender-Based Differences in Activity Trends

When analyzing results by gender and educational level, distinct patterns emerged. This breakdown enables deeper insights into how male and female students differ in their engagements and interests, reflecting broader socio-cultural dynamics and possibly different educational impacts.

The nuances of these findings can inform educators, parents, and policymakers as they navigate the changing landscape of children's activities and needs in a post-pandemic world.

Study Overview

The Kodomo Teiten 2025 survey was designed to understand children's experiences and the values and self-images formed through them. The study methodology involved internet surveys and targeted a representative sample across Japan. Aimed at collecting consistent data, the findings pave the way for understanding the long-term transformations in children’s lives.

With the research conducted between September 12 to October 7, 2025, and past iterations spanning September of previous years, the study’s meticulous approach ensures continued relevance in an ever-evolving educational landscape.

The Role of the Hakuhodo Education Foundation

Founded in 1970, the Hakuhodo Education Foundation has committed itself to improving education for children, supported through various financial assistance programs aimed at promoting language education and the development of healthy human beings. The foundation has evolved significantly, adapting its objectives and strategies to suit contemporary educational needs while establishing a robust framework for ongoing research and development in children’s education.

A key component of their work is the Children Research Institute, established in 2017 to focus on transparent, evidence-based studies on children, fostering a deeper understanding of their needs and potentials.

For more information on this research and findings, visit the Children Research Institute's official website: Hakuhodo Children Research Institute