Executive function and screen‐based media use in preschool children

Abstract The aim of this study was to explore associations between time spent using various media devices and executive abilities in preschoolers. Participants were 190 children (44.2% female; mean age 58.75 months, SD = 7.27). The Shape School, the Missing Scan and the Head and Feet tasks were administered to children to assess three core executive functions (mental set shifting, working memory, and inhibitory control). Parents provided information on the daily time children spent watching television and using smartphones, tablets, and computers. Parental education was also taken into consideration. Results of multiple linear regression analysis revealed that separate executive abilities were not predicted by use of any type of screen. To conclude, our findings suggest that screen time is not related to executive functions in typically developing low social risk preschoolers who are not overusing screens. Highlights This study explored the links between time spent using various screen‐media devices and executive abilities in four‐ and five‐year‐olds. TV, computer, smartphone and tablet use were not related to inhibitory control, working memory and shifting in preschoolers from low‐risk backgrounds. Future research should take into consideration screen exposure time and content, and analyse relationships between screen use and executive functions longitudinally.