Relationship between 3 to 5 years old children’s screen time and parental factors in Hong Kong

The beginning age of using screen products among Hong Kong preschoolers was far earlier than the recommended age by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and a local survey showed that many Hong Kong children spent more than the recommended time by AAP. Some theories indicated that parents could effectively influence child’s behaviors. This study is aimed to investigate the associations between parental factors and child’s screen time. Question of ‘What are the associations between parental factors (i.e. socioeconomic status, parents’ screen using behavior and attitude) and 3-5 years old children’s screen time in Hong Kong?’ is discussed. Questionnaire is used to collect data from parents who have at least one 3-5 year old child. This study found that child’s screen time was positively associated with parents’ screen time and positive attitude on the impacts of digital devices, and also negatively associated with rules and had no association with SES. The importance of parent modeling and the promotion of education on using digital devices are addressed by the results.