Digital Media in Early Childhood
Education: Opportunities and Challenges
Understanding the Role of
Technology in Young Children's
Development
Digital media is increasingly shaping how young
children learn, play, and interact.
Understanding its impact is crucial for
supporting healthy development and learning.
Educators and parents need evidence-based
strategies to use technology responsibly.

Digital devices like tablets and
smartphones are widely used for
entertainment, education, and
communication.
Guidelines are needed to ensure beneficial
outcomes for children.

Positive: Educational apps and programs can
support learning and skill development
Negative: Excessive or inappropriate use may
lead to attention issues, sleep disturbances,
and delayed language acquisition

Parental Mediation
Active engagement (e.g., co-viewing,
discussing content) enhances learning and
reduces risks.
Parents play a key role in helping children
develop healthy media habits.

TECHNOLOGY

Advocacy for the Topic: Focus on best practices for digital media
use. These workshops would cover topics such as selecting highquality educational content, setting appropriate screen time
limits, and strategies for active engagement during media use

Reference: Mannell, K., & McDaniel, B. T. (2024). Digital media and technology use by
families with infants, toddlers, and young children: A scoping review and call for forward
momentum. Journal of Children and Media, 18(4), 455–472.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17482798.2024.2394939
By: Jingna Dong