Conflicting Guidelines on Young Children's Screen Time and Use of Digital Technology Create Policy and Practice Dilemmas

Abstract

Across the globe, many children live in a digitally enmeshed world. Education and industry authorities encourage the use of digital technology by children to prepare them to thrive in a digital world. Health authorities, in contrast, discourage young children's use of digital technology and raise concerns about the potential negative effects on children's physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being. This paper articulates the differing perspectives of education and health authorities that result in a dilemma for those charged with providing for young children's health, care, education, development, and well-being—that of conflicting advice regarding the use of digital technology in early childhood. We highlight the consequent need for clear and balanced information regarding appropriate digital technology practices for families, doctors, educators, and other professionals working with young children—so that young children may gain benefits from digital technology use while minimizing the potential for harm.