IMPACT OF SCREEN TIME ON NEUROPSYCHOMOTOR AND BEHAVIORAL DEVELOPMENT IN EARLY CHILDHOOD

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the impact of screen time on the neuropsychomotor and behavioral development of children in early childhood. This is an integrative literature review, based on Evidence-Based Practice, with searches conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS databases. Twenty-six original articles published between 2021 and 2026 were included. The results show that early and prolonged exposure to digital devices, especially before two years of age and exceeding one hour daily in preschoolers, correlates with delays in language acquisition, motor deficits, and reduced white matter integrity. It was also observed that overstimulation negatively affects executive functions, causing emotional self-regulation problems, hyperactivity, and sleep disorders. It is concluded that excessive screen time replaces interpersonal interactions and free play, which are essential for neuroplasticity. The adoption of family digital literacy strategies is recommended, limiting the passive use of technology to protect child neurodevelopment.