LEVEL OF SCREEN EXPOSURE AMONG CHILDREN ATTENDING PRESCHOOL EDUCATION AND CARE

Abstract

Children of preschool age are exposed to digital media/screens to varying degrees. While some authors highlight the positive effects of screen exposure, others emphasize the negative impacts, particularly on early childhood growth and development. The aim of this study was to survey parents (N = 89) of preschool-aged children attending preschool education and care regarding their children’s level of screen exposure. In addition to the primary aim, secondary objectives were set to examine the relationship between parents’ age and the level of screen exposure, the relationship between parents’ education and the level of screen exposure, and the relationship between the total number of screens in the household and the level of screen exposure. The "Seven in Seven Screen Exposure Questionnaire" was used to assess the level of screen exposure. The analysis of the results showed that the level of screen exposure among preschool-aged children attending preschool education and care falls into the category of low exposure. No statistically significant correlation was found between parents' age, parents' education, and the level of screen exposure among preschool-aged children. However, a statistically significant correlation was identified between the total number of TVs and cellphones in the household and the level of screen exposure.