One in every four British kids from the age of seven to ten owns a mobile phone, according to an EveningTimes report.
In 2001, 13 per cent of primary school children had a phone, but in the last three years that figure has almost doubled to 25 per cent, said the EveningTimes, quoting a research study.
Market analysts Mintel conducted the study during the start of the year. About 2,000 seven to 10-year-olds were surveyed for the study.
The EveningTimes report, quoting Jenny Catlin, consumer analyst at Mintel, said: "Many parents find it reassuring to be able to get in touch with their children at any time and some consider mobile phones important for their children's safety. Children in one-parent households are more likely to have their own phone."
"This may be because these children have more complex lifestyles, especially if they are in regular touch with their non-resident parent and may need a phone more to help with the logistics of moving between two households," the EveningTimes said.
The survey, conducted through questionnaires sent via parents, revealed that life can be stressful even for young children.
More than a third of the seven to 10-year-olds said they were 'very worried' about school work and 48 per cent were concerned about bullying. Only 46 per cent said they enjoyed school.