British schoolchildren better at iPhones than shoelaces

British schoolchildren are more confident using a DVD player or an iPhone than tying their shoelaces, research claims.

As many as 45 per cent of children aged between five and 13 cannot tie their shoe laces - but 67 per cent can work a DVD player, according to a poll.

The study showed a large proportion can log on to the Internet, play computer games, use an iPhone or iPad and work satellite television services, but 65 per cent cannot make a cup of tea, while 81 per cent cannot read a map and 87 per cent would not be able to repair a bicycle puncture.

Research also showed a large proportion were sadly lacking in knowledge about the great outdoors.

As many as 63 per cent would not know how to build a den, while 59 per cent cannot even climb a tree. A further 79 per cent have no idea how to put up a tent, while 78 per cent cannot build a camp fire. And when asked if they cared about the environment a third said "no" - with half of these saying it was because "in the future we'll be able to live in space".

Survival expert Ray Mears said he was shocked by the findings, from electricity provider npower, reported The Daily Telegraph.

He added: "I cannot believe our young people are so ill-equipped when it comes to practical skills.

"When I was growing up, I was told 'You don't need equipment, you need knowledge to survive in the wild' and this is something that I truly believe. Simple skills like putting up a tent can teach you important lessons that cannot be learnt without doing them yourself.

"You learn how to work in a team and communicate with your peers as well as how to work under pressure and use logic.

"Most importantly, you also learn how to look after yourself and know your strengths."

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