Parents’ attitude to use of digital technology by young children

Abstract

The article provides a review of studies concerning the parent’s attitude to digital technology utilization of their young children. Data presented show an increase in intensity and a significant decrease in the age at which children start using mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets. It is shown that new technologies significantly change the relationship of children and parents. Variants of parental mediation strategies in the process of using digital technologies are highlighted and described: restrictive, active, co-use, etc. This paper is concluded with recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics for use of media by young children. The need to make a General Comment on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which protects children’s access, protection and participation rights in use of new digital resources in an era of rapid technological change, is emphasized.