Olympic and Paralympic Games spark kid’s interest in sports and health, says poll
A recent YouGov survey asked 1,035 children in Great Britain, aged 6-15, about their viewing habits related to the Paris Olympic 2024 and Paralympic Games. Data from Children’s Omnibus show that over half of these children, 57%, have watched some part of the Olympics, while 24% have tuned in to the Paralympics. Some 18% say they have watched both events. On the other hand, 34% said they haven't watched either event.
For those who did watch, experiences varied. More than half of the children, 53%, discovered a new sport they hadn't known about before. Additionally, 50% learned something new about a sport they were already familiar with. One-third watched specifically because an athlete they knew was competing (32%). Three in 10 watched a sport they already participate in (30%), while 16% watched because someone they personally know takes part in that sport outside of the games.
When asked how they felt after watching the games, a majority expressed positive feelings. Eight in 10 children said watching the Paris Olympics 2024 and Paralympics made them feel proud of the teams (84%). Many also felt motivated to improve in sports they already participate in, with 74% agreeing that the games encouraged them to get better. Boys were more likely to say this than girls (79% boys vs. 69% girls).
Similarly, 72% said it increased their interest in physical health (76% boys vs. 67% girls), and 68% felt inspired to try out a new sport (74% boys vs. 62% girls) with boys more interested in doing so than girls. Watching the games also made 68% of children want to attend a live sports event in person. Some, 58% of those surveyed said they now aspire to become an Olympian or Paralympian one day.
Methodology: Children and Parents Omnibus provide quick survey results from children, teenagers or parents in Great Britain. This study was conducted online on 6-13 September 2024, with a nationally/ representative sample of 1,035 children (aged 6-15 years) in Great Britain, using a questionnaire designed by YouGov. Data figures have been weighted by age, gender, and region to be representative of all children in Great Britain (6-15 years) and reflect the latest ONS population estimates. Learn more about YouGov Surveys: Serviced.
Cover photo by Alec D