Abu Dhabi Kids Get Devices at Age Three

Abu Dhabi: At Three, Kids Get First Digital Devices

According to a recent study, children in Abu Dhabi receive their first digital devices – most commonly tablets followed by smartphones – at an average age of 3 years and 4 months. The survey conducted jointly by New York University Abu Dhabi and the Early Childhood Authority (ECA) involved more than 10,000 parents and examined how children aged 0–8 use digital media.

Majority of Parents Are Satisfied

One of the most surprising findings of the survey is that 70% of responding parents are satisfied with their children's screen time usage. This shows that in Abu Dhabi the presence of digital media is generally accepted even during early childhood. The ECA conducted the research as part of the World Early Childhood Development (WED) Movement initiative, focusing on the digital well-being of young children.

Benefits of Digital Devices

According to experts, the appropriate and moderate use of digital devices can facilitate learning, language development, and social skills formation. Children born today are digital natives, meaning technology will be an integral part of their lives. However, screen time should not become exclusive: physical activity, free play, offline interaction with friends and family, and sufficient rest are also essential for balanced development.

Conscious Parental Presence

The research emphasizes that parental presence is essential for safe navigation in the digital world. Selecting appropriate content, creating a learning environment, and monitoring digital habits all contribute to children using devices effectively and safely. Applications such as Apple Screen Time or Microsoft Family Safety and parental control systems help in achieving this.

Adults Serve as Role Models

Children often imitate the behavior of adults – if parents display healthy digital habits, children are more likely to follow. It is important to balance screen time with real-world experiences: movement, collective games, and personal interactions.

The Future is Digital, Yet Human

The rapid advancement of technology is unstoppable; hence the aim is to establish frameworks that support responsible digital device use even in early years. This not only serves children’s well-being but also lays the foundation for a digitally conscious society in the long run.

(The article is based on the digital usage survey of New York University Abu Dhabi.)