EARLY YEARS AND TECHNOLOGY: PARENT PERSPECTIVES ON WHEN TECHNOLOGY SHOULD BE INTRODUCED IN THE UAE

This study explores parental perspectives on the appropriate age for introducing technology to young children, with a particular focus on the perceived developmental risks and educational benefits. With the increasing presence of digital devices in everyday life, the early years—considered a critical period for cognitive, emotional, and social development—have become a key area of concern. Using a mixed-methods research design, the study collected data from 173 parents through surveys and conducted in-depth interviews with 20 participants. The findings revealed a strong consensus among parents that technology should not be introduced before the age of three, with many expressing concerns about screen dependency, reduced physical activity, and developmental delays. At the same time, parents acknowledged the potential educational value of technology when used in a controlled and purposeful manner, especially for literacy, numeracy, and bilingual learning support. Socioeconomic status, educational background, and cultural influences were found to shape parental attitudes and practices, although no statistically significant correlation was observed in the quantitative analysis. The study concludes that while early technology exposure presents both opportunities and risks, parental guidance, content quality, and timing are critical in determining its developmental impact. These findings offer important implications for policymakers, educators, and technology developers in shaping age-appropriate guidelines and support systems for families navigating digital parenting.