Two thirds (68%) of parents spend less quality time with their children than previous generations, according to new research released today by Windows Live Messenger. The study of over 1,200 parents, commissioned to launch the online story-telling tool, ‘Time for a Story’, revealed that more than half (58%) say they are unable to give their children the same attention they received from their own parents and were missing out on key moments such as reading stories together (33%).

More than one in five children (21%) are already in bed by the time their parents get home, allowing little opportunity for playtime or reading during the week.

To help parents, Windows Live Messenger has launched, ‘Time for a Story’, a new story-telling feature available at www.TimeForaStory.com, that lets Mums and Dads read stories to their children via a webcam, no matter where they are. So if parents are stuck at work late, or do not live with their child full-time they can still maintain regular contact, increasing the emotional bond with their child through this fun, free animated tool.

Time for a Story, is launching with three classic Noddy stories. The stories feature interactive animations which come to life as the child clicks on the on screen images. Stories featuring other classic characters are expected to follow in the coming months.

Mark West for Windows Live Messenger: “It is really important and special for parents and grandparents to read and play with their children and grandchildren, but with today’s hectic and separated lifestyles, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to set time aside to do just that. To solve this problem, we’re delighted to introduce a compelling, interactive and fun application like Time for a Story®, for Messenger users. The beauty of Time for a Story® is that you can access it anywhere, at any time, and it’s completely free to use.”

Jeff Norton, Director of Brand Development at Chorion, the Noddy rights owners who have created the application with Digital Outlook, says: “Noddy is a timeless character who has delighted families the world over since his first appearance exactly sixty years ago. We’re delighted to work with Microsoft to bring storytelling into the digital age and to help advance children’s learning and development in the 21st Century.”

All you need to get started with ‘Time for a Story’ is a PC with internet connection, Windows Live Messenger which can be downloaded for free at http://windowslive.uk.msn.com/messenger/ a webcam and microphone - you can then get started immediately by selecting ‘Time for A Story’ from the Windows Live Messenger activity menu. For more information go to www.TimeForaStory.com .