The University Psychology Clinic of the Faculty of Education and Psychology at  Universidade Católica Portuguesa (FEP-UCP) has developed a factsheet dedicated to the topic “Children’s Exposure to Digital Technologies.”

This resource brings together essential information for parents, educators and professionals, addressing key questions such as:

• What science says about the use of digital technologies at an early age;
• Warning signs that may indicate excessive or inappropriate use;
• When and how digital technologies can positively contribute to child development.

Download the infographic :

The references used in the preparation of the factsheet are available below.

References

  Chen, L., Oliveira, M., & Dias, P. (2024). Assistive technologies in early childhood education: Opportunities for inclusion. Journal of Educational Technology, 12(2), 45–59. https://doi.org/10.51473/rcmos.v1i2.2024.802 

  Ordem dos Psicólogos Portugueses. (2021). Orientações para a utilização de ecrãs e tecnologias digitais nas escolas. Ordem dos Psicólogos Portugueses. https://www.ordemdospsicologos.pt/ficheiros/documentos/opp_orientacoesparautilizacaodeecrasetecnologiasnasescolas.pdf#page=32.05 

  Organização Mundial da Saúde. (2019). Guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for children under 5 years of age. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241550536 

  Santos, F., Almeida, R., & Correia, P. (2023). Screen time and psychological well-being in European adolescents: A systematic review. BMC Psychology, 11(4), 210–223. DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01166-7 

  Sticca, F., Brauchli, L., & Lannen, P. (2025). Early screen exposure and child development: A systematic review of 158 studies. Frontiers in Developmental Psychology, 3, 1–18. DOI: 10.3389/fdpys.2024.1439040