According to the results of some studies, the impact of the omnipresence of screens in daily life among young children also depends on social factors. Moreover, exposure to these technologies varies according to social categories. In this article, we will review the issues related to time spent in front of screens and the consequences for children's development.

Context and importance in screen use

The evolution of children's exposure to screens

Children's screen consumption has increased considerably over the past decades. It has shifted from television to various screens, such as smartphones, tablets, etc. This evolution raises concerns about its impact on young people's cognitive and social development. Studies show that early and intensive exposure to these tools can affect cognitive development, mental and physical health, as well as children's social and emotional skills.

Social categories and access to technologies

Research indicates that our little ones are exposed to screens from a very young age, often before the age of two. This early exposure can vary significantly depending on the family environment and the resources available. This observation highlights a disparity according to social categories. The distribution of technological resources is not uniform across different strata. This situation therefore influences children's access to and use of digital devices. Higher-income families often have wider access to a variety of devices and to high-quality educational content, while children born into less affluent families may find themselves with limited access to these valuable resources.

A study carried out by Ined and Inserm reveals that children whose mother did not attend high school spend on average an additional 45 minutes per day in front of screens at the age of 2, and 1 hour and 15 minutes more at the age of 5 and a half, compared with those whose mothers have an education level equal to or greater than 5 years of post-baccalaureate study.

The effects of screens on young children

Cognitive development

Overexposure to screens has effects on children's cognitive development, notably in terms of concentration, memory and learning abilities. These effects vary depending on the nature of the exposure and the type of content consumed. A study by Rachel Acheson highlights the impact of digital technology on children's mental health, emphasizing the links between social media use and depressive symptoms in adolescents (Acheson, 2022) REF [^1^].

Mental and physical health

Intensive screen use is associated with sleep disorders, reduced physical activity and problems with emotional well-being among adolescents and children. These impacts also appear to be modulated by the social and family context, with significant variations according to screen-use practices across different social categories.

Social and emotional skills

Exposure to digital technologies can influence young children's social and emotional skills. Indeed, it limits face-to-face interactions and alters the perception of social relationships. The social environment plays a leading role in modulating these effects. Children from disadvantaged backgrounds are potentially more exposed to inappropriate content or to excessive screen use without adequate supervision.

The particular case of children two years old and under

Children aged 2 and under represent a particularly sensitive group regarding screen exposure. Current guidelines recommend zero screen time for children under 3 years and prioritize human interactions for their growth and well-being.

Differences in screen exposure according to social categories

Factors influencing exposure

Parental education, available resources and cultural norms are key factors that influence children's exposure to digital media. An in-depth analysis reveals varied trends in screen use across different social environments. Children from affluent backgrounds generally have access to higher-quality educational content and to supervised screen use.

Consequences of disparities 

Inequalities in access to quality educational content and to suitable devices can have a significant impact on long-term educational and social opportunities for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. These disparities highlight the need for initiatives aimed at reducing gaps in access to and consumption of digital resources.

Strategies to mitigate the negative effects related to screen use

Role of parents and educators

It is essential to regulate screen use among young children. It is best to prioritize quality content and to limit exposure time. Guidance and media education are fundamental to developing a critical and conscious use of technologies in order to make the most of them.

Recommendations regarding screen use for children

Specific recommendations, based on the latest research, aim to help parents and educators navigate today's complex digital landscape. This involves establishing clear rules on the frequency, duration and content of children's screen sessions.

Public and private initiatives

Several programs aim to reduce inequalities in screen exposure. They offer, among other things, resources and training to families and early childhood professionals. These initiatives meet with varying success. This therefore underscores the need for a coordinated and inclusive approach to address this complex issue.

In conclusion

Understanding differences in screen exposure according to social categories is crucial to addressing the various challenges posed by digital technology in children's development. A balanced approach that takes into account the specific needs of each child and their family and social context is necessary to maximize the benefits of technology.

Disclaimer

This article is based on research and studies available at the time of writing. It aims to inform and raise awareness, and does not replace professional advice.

References

REF [^1^]. Acheson, R. (2022). Research digest: Digital technology and its impact on child mental health. Digital Technology Research. https://dx.doi.org/10.1080/0075417X.2022.2127839

REF [^2^]. Zulkifli N, Novianti R, Garzia M. (2021). The Role of Preschool in Using Gadgets for Digital Natives Generation. Journal of Preschool and Digital Education. https://dx.doi.org/10.21009/jpud.152.02