Parents' Decisions Regarding Digital Media Use by Their Children Under Three Years Old in the United Arab Emirates

As young children's digital media use increases, more research on parents' decisions, such as preferred digital content and mediation strategies, is necessary, particularly with underrepresented populations. The present study analyzed survey data on Arab parents' decisions regarding digital media use of their children under 3 years in the United Arab Emirates. Most children did not use digital media, and those who did predominantly engaged in “watching” activities. Media content focused on early learning activities and Arabic-language videos. Most parents engaged in digital media together with their child, and joint engagement was linked to less digital media use. The results suggest Arab parents' media decisions included consideration of content and an emphasis on co-using media with their children. Implications are suggested for policymakers, media developers, and parental guidelines.