A global survey has asked 6,204 children in 47 countries around the world about their hopes, dreams and fears. The worldwide "Small Voices, Big Dreams" report is from the children's charity ChildFund. It asked ten- to twelve-year-olds six questions about the world and their future. It discovered that education, food and the environment are their biggest worries. A ChildFund spokesman said: "We're always surprised…to see how much [importance] children…put on education." He added that he was pleased children saw the link between education and a better future: "It shows the depth of maturity of children, who clearly understand the connection between education and changing their worlds for the better."

The children were asked the question: "If you were president or leader of your country, what would you do to improve the lives of children in your country?" Most said they would focus on education. The children also answered the question "What are you most afraid of?" Over 25 per cent of kids in developing countries said their greatest fear was dangerous animals and insects. The environment was also a big concern for the children. The report says: "Across the world, nearly half of children said they would either plant more trees, build additional green spaces or decrease littering to help improve the planet." Regarding future careers, almost 20 per cent of children want to be a professional athlete when they grow up.