Effects of the Use of Technological Devices in Children Aged 4 to 5 Years

Arleni Yamilet Murillo Herrera, Pedro Roca Piloso

Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí, Ecuador

The use of technological devices, such as tablets, smartphones, and televisions, has increased significantly among preschool-aged children. This article analyzes published information on the screen time and habits of children aged 4 to 5 years, including the most commonly used technological devices by families over the past decade. Databases were searched in Latindex, ScienceDirect, Springer, Scopus, and Web of Science, covering research published between 2015 and 2025. The search criteria for publications were (a) use of technological devices in children aged 4 to 5 years, (b) educational and recreational contexts, (c) and (d) among children. Sixty studies reviewed indicate a trend that moderate and supervised use of electronic devices can promote digital and educational skills. However, excessive or uncontrolled use of educational technologies is associated with attention problems, sleep disorders, impaired social relationships, and risks to children's physical health. It concluded that the use of technological devices in children aged 4 to 5 years should be regulated and guided, encouraging activities that complement their overall development and avoiding prolonged unsupervised exposure.

Article link: https://www.asianinstituteofresearch.org/EQRarchives/effects-of-the-use-of-technological-devices-in-children-aged-4-to-5-years