A study on determinants of smartphone exposure among children between 0 and 3 years
T. A. Sowndarya, Mounesh Pattar, Stalin Ramprakash, Premsai BoyapatiAbstract
Background:
Screen exposure includes traditional media like television and modern digital platforms such as smartphones, tablets, video gaming, and social media. Excessive screen exposure is associated with language delays, impaired motor skills, and cognitive deficits in children. This study aims to assess the prevalence and parental practices regarding screen exposure in children aged from birth to 36 months, examining sociodemographic factors, parental knowledge, and key determinants.
Material and Methods:
This cross-sectional study assessed screen exposure among 600 developmentally normal children aged from birth to 36 months. Children with sensory or motor impairments, restricted mobility, or developmental delays were excluded from the study. Information on the child’s screen exposure initiation, frequency, and context – including use during meals, entertainment, and academic activities – was recorded. Parental perceptions and reasons for smartphone use were analyzed to understand screen time (ST) patterns and influencing factors.
Results:
Most mothers were aged 26–35 years, educated, working, and from urban nuclear families. Children were introduced to screens primarily at 9–12 months (60.2%), with 33.2% exceeding 120 min of daily ST. Smartphones were often used during meals (73%) and for entertainment (84.3%), while educational use was minimal (88.2% using them ≤3 days/week). Parents primarily offered smartphones to keep children calm (50.5%) or during feeding (37.3%).
Conclusion:
Early screen exposure among children aged 0–3 years, often exceeding daily limits, with smartphones used primarily to calm or feed. Parental awareness of developmental risks was low, highlighting the need for educational interventions to promote healthier practices, limit ST, and encourage nonscreen-based engagement for better outcomes.