Mobile Devices and Parenting [Extended Abstract

Abstract

Aim/Purpose: This presentation will discuss how mobile devices are used to keep children busy and entertained during child care activities. Mobile devices are considered the 21st “Century Nanny” since parents and caregivers use those tools to engage children’s attention for indefinite periods of time. Research background on touch screen devices and children’s age groups are presented to map age to screen activities and the type of device used. The literature is then compared to a small sample of 45 students attending Pasitos, a pre-k and 1st and 2nd grade school in El Salvador, and the type of mobile devices they used after school. Background: The wide adoption of mobile devices to keep children busy and entertained is a growing concern and a cause for passionate debates. Methodology: This study considered two types of research to compare findings. One study was gathered from the literature to demonstrate how children use mobile devices, apps, and video genres based on age groups. The second study looked at 45 children attending Pasitos and the type of mobile devices they used during child care time at home. Pasitos is a pre-k and 1st and 2nd grade school in El Salvador. Contribution: Identify the type of mobile devices mostly used by children during child care activities. Findings: (1) Touchscreens are the most intuitive interfaces for young children; (2) children’s use of technology can strengthen the relationships between home and school; and (3) mobile apps consider children’s emotions, learning activities, and interaction in the development and design. Recommendations for Practitioners: Touchscreens are the most intuitive interfaces for young children, and adult supervision enhances the children's experience. Recommendation for Researchers: Mobile apps for design and development must consider children’s emotions, learning activities, and interaction. Impact on Society: Children’s use of technology can strengthen the relationships between home and school. Future Research: Few studies have researched the impact of young children’s cognitive and social development with the use of mobile apps.