Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the parental attitude towards usage of digital media in children of Age group 1 to 5 years.
METHODS AND MATERIALS
A web-based study was completed by parents of 1 to 5 years old children who had access to technological devices. Themes were identified and evaluated using content analysis. There were 50 respondents providing information on 150 children. Children commonly had access to at least 2 devices at home.
RESULTS
49.3% of respondents did not feel that technology use had an impact on the physical activity of their children compared to 38.9% who thought it had a negative effect. There were no difference based on child's gender or parent occupation.
CONCLUSIONS
Most parents do not believe that technology use negatively impacts upon their child's physical activity and suggest that enjoyment of physical activity and setting access rules account for this. However, a substantial number believe it has a negative impact and suggest less access to technology would result in an increase to activity levels. Technological interventions that include restrictive mediation approaches and strategies to enhance physical literacy may be beneficial.