Association between duration of digital device use and concentration and developmental screening outcomes among children aged 3–5 years in five Early Childhood Education Centers in Bekasi City

Nofa Anggraini* -  STIKES Abdi Nusantara Jakarta, Indonesia
Adini Nabila -  STIKES Abdi Nusantara Jakarta, Indonesia
Chintia Ningsih -  STIKES Abdi Nusantara Jakarta, Indonesia
Fahma Hafizotu Sholihah -  STIKES Abdi Nusantara Jakarta, Indonesia
Cintya Nuriani -  STIKES Abdi Nusantara Jakarta, Indonesia
Nabila Salsabilah -  STIKES Abdi Nusantara Jakarta, Indonesia
DOI : 10.30867/action.v11i3.3415

Longer gadget use duration may reduce opportunities for interaction and play activities that support attention and child development. This study aimed to analyze the association between the duration of gadget use, concentration, and developmental screening outcomes in children aged 3–5 years. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2026 at five purposively selected early childhood education centers in Bekasi City, Indonesia. Of the 201 registered children, 184 gadget users who met the study criteria were included in the analysis. The duration of gadget use was assessed using caregiver reports. Concentration was evaluated using a 10-item observation checklist (high concentration: score ≥7), and developmental status was screened using the age-appropriate KPSP. Associations were analyzed using Firth logistic regression and multivariable logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, center, sleep duration, parental education, socioeconomic status, nutritional status, dietary patterns, and supervision by caregivers. The mean duration of gadget use was 1.79±0.83 hours/day, with excessive use (>1 hour/day) identified in 120 children (65.2%). Recommended duration use (≤1 hour/day) was significantly associated with high concentration (adjusted OR=15.57; p<0.001) and appropriate developmental screening outcomes (adjusted OR=3.39; p=0.004). An increase in duration showed a graded decline in the favorable outcomes. In conclusion, a longer gadget use duration was associated with lower concentration and less favorable developmental screening outcomes in children.

Keywords : Gadget use duration, concentration, developmental screening, preschool children, screen time

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Open Access Copyright (c) 2026 Nofa Anggraini, Adini Nabila, Chintia Ningsih, Fahma Hafizotu Sholihah, Cintya Nuriani, Nabila Salsabilah
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AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal
Published by: Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health.
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