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Impact of the iPad on Saudi Young Children in the Home Environment as Perceived by Their Mothers

2021; RELX Group (Netherlands); Linguagem: Inglês

1556-5068

Reima Al-Jarf,

ICT Impact and Policies

The study investigated the effect of using the iPad at home by Saudi young children. Results showed that half of the children in the sample have their own iPad. 50% spend 1-2 hours a day using the iPad; 30% use it on holidays. 74% believe that nowadays use of the iPad has become a necessity. They like to introduce their children to latest technologies. The children can learn quickly and easily. The iPad also keeps the child calm and occupied while the mother is busy, having visitors, or running errands. However, the mothers reported that using the iPad by young children has several negative effects such as: distraction, social isolation; addiction to the iPad; losing their temper when the iPad is taken from them or when it is out of battery. The iPad’s glare and staring at the iPad for a long time might affect children’s eyesight. The children do not feel like moving or playing, socializing, or communicating with others while using the iPad. The mothers did not agree on the optimal age for using the iPad. The majority recommended setting a time limit for using the iPad under the parents’ supervision. Results and recommendations are reported in detail.