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MOST children are happy with their lives and optimistic about the future, a survey has revealed.
Some 40,000 answered questions on their eating, drinking and smoking habits, their family, health, leisure and attitude to life.
The survey revealed 16 per cent of children aged 10 to 11 have had at least one alcoholic drink.
Girls aged 14 to 15 are more likely to smoke than boys of that age - 25 per cent compared to 17 have had a cigarette in the past week.
Up to 34 per cent of children will have tried cannabis by 16.
Eighty-eight per cent watch TV every night, and 42 per cent of boys aged 12 to 15 do no homework.
Most children are confident about exam success, happy with their home life and less anxious than in the past. Children aged eight to 18 at 452 schools in Britain took part in the survey for the independent Schools Health Education Unit.
SHEU's Dr David Reid said: "The research shows the emotional health and wellbeing of most young people is better than it has been.
"A lot of youngsters are satisfied with their lives, either socially or at school."
Mirror
