A poll of 1,000 parents, with kids aged three to seven, also revealed seeing their offspring demonstrate selfless qualities evoked feelings of pride.

On average, children left their moms and dads feeling delighted six times a week from their display of these caring traits.

And 84 percent see these qualities shine through when their kids interact with their friends.

The research was commissioned as part of the launch of the inaugural Thomas & Friends International Friendship Day Awards, which honour the best examples of friendship shown by UK children over the past year.

"The research has really highlighted the importance parents put on ensuring their children build great relationships at an early age," spokeswoman Claudia Caron said. "Friendship can teach a child so many things and the survey has illustrated many of the positive impacts that give parents a sense of pride.