SCREEN EXPOSURE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD: IMPACTS ON CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING CARE

Abstract

Early and/or excessive screen exposure may be associated with various effects on child development, although these effects may vary depending on the context and patterns of use. This study aimed to describe the effects associated with early and/or excessive screen exposure on child development during early childhood and their implications for nursing practice. This is an integrative literature review conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, and LILACS databases, including studies published between 2021 and 2026 in Portuguese and English. A total of 20 studies were included, comprising 19 scientific articles and one dissertation, which were analyzed and organized into four thematic categories. The findings revealed associations between early and/or excessive screen exposure and effects on child development, particularly in cognitive, linguistic, motor, socioemotional, and social domains. Associations with sleep disturbances, sedentary behavior, unhealthy eating habits, and eye problems were also identified. Family-related and socioeconomic factors, as well as parenting practices, were found to be associated with patterns of screen exposure. The findings reinforce the importance of nursing practice in Primary Health Care, particularly in health education, child development monitoring, and guidance for parents and caregivers regarding the appropriate use of technology.