A fascinating survey of 1,200 five to thirteen year olds has been commissioned by National Geographic Kids magazine. The survey, entitled ‘What Kids Think About Britain Today’ revealed that 99% of children counted themselves lucky to live in the British Isles. The majority believed that the best thing about being a child living in Britain was the great variety of things to do. This was followed by the wildlife and countryside. The weather topped the list of worst things about Britain.
LEGOLAND Windsor topped the chart of favourite attractions in Britain. The Berkshire theme park was a clear favourite beating off stiff competition from some of the UK’s most famous attractions and places. It even came ahead of London and the seaside! Vicky Brown, general manager of LEGOLAND Windsor said: “To be ranked as the top children’s attraction is a fantastic achievement for us. When LEGOLAND Windsor opens in March we’ll have more rides than ever before. This is our third new land in as many years and we’re excited to continue building upon what makes us the best children’s theme park in Britain.” LEGOLAND Windsor reopens on 20 March 2010. To find out more, visit www.LEGOLAND.co.uk.
The Queen remained the number one royal with children, taking 51% of the vote. Prince Harry attracted 16% of the votes and Prince Charles and Prince William both received 12%.
The survey highlighted that a significant proportion of children living in Britain today understood the importance of protecting their environment. 38% of children recycled and 25% had helped their community through fundraising for local charities.
Despite initiatives to promote healthy eating, children voted pizza as their favourite dinner with 21% of the votes. A traditional roast dinner came second with 20% of the vote whilst salads scored just 2%.
When asked to name their biggest hero, children voted ‘Mum’ as their number one Brit, followed by their dad and in third place Sir David Attenborough. Other people featured in the heroes top ten included X Factor judge Simon Cowell, tennis star Andy Murray and Olympic champion cyclist Chris Hoy. Sir David Attenborough did however make it to the number one spot for Britain’s best ambassador, beating off competition from the Queen and David Beckham.
With a general election looming next year, it seems that Gordon Brown’s days at Number 10 are numbered! In the survey, children thought their dad would make the best Prime Minister. Tony Blair took tenth place, behind US President Barack Obama and Simon Cowell.
As a nation of animal lovers, it’s not surprising to learn that the majority of British children dreamed of becoming a vet when they grew up. This was closely followed by teacher and author. Other jobs that made it into the top ten professions included footballer, scientist and police officer.
National Geographic Kids launched in the British Isles in October 2006 and is on sale at most good newsagents and retail outlets such as WH Smiths and Borders, plus supermarkets including Tesco, Asda and Sainsburys for £2.99. It is also available through subscription. Jam-packed with the fascinating features and amazing images you’d expect from the National Geographic brand, National Geographic Kids takes readers on new adventures – exploring the wonders of the natural world, getting up close with exotic wildlife, discovering different cultures and getting creative with exiting things to make and do. Plus, there are fun puzzles and quizzes, fantastic posters. Subjects featured include wildlife, environment, geography, science, history and exploration, world cultures, ancient civilizations, inventions, space, art and crafts.
To see the full results of the survey visit the NG Kids website.