More than 80% of 8 to 12 year olds have their own social media accounts.
Research from CyberSafe Kids shows there has been a surge in children using apps during lockdown.
One in three children in Ireland can go online whenever they want.
Parents are being reminded to engage with their children on Safer Internet Day on the risks of certain online activity.
Tuesday 9 February is #SaferInternetDay, and it feels more relevant than ever as schools and families across the nation continue to learn online. 📶
It's vital that we keep having important discussions with young people about their online safety. Thread of resources 👇 #SID2021
— Oak National Academy (@OakNational) February 8, 2021
The data also found that 92 percent of 8 to 12 year olds have their own smart device.
Chief Executive of CyberSafe Kids, Alex Cooney, says parents should see today as an opportunity to speak to their children.
"Chat to them, have regular conversations, keep an eye on what they're doing and put in place some boundaries."
Today is Safer Internet Day #SID2021 and Katie and Dylan had the opportunity earlier, with @CyberSafeIE to share some very important advice. We're very proud of these guys and their guidance!! Wise words on an important day! pic.twitter.com/b96idIlP8G
— kevinssallynoggin (@kevinssallynog1) February 9, 2021
But Cyber Psychologist Mary Aiken says parents shouldn't have to take full responsibility.
"Parents cannot be left to paddle their own canoe in cyber space."
"This is a government, a policy and a tech industry issue."
Tik Tok, Whatsapp and Snapchat are the most popular apps for children.
