Impact of mobile devices on young children's development and health
Official title: Understanding the Impact of Interactive Electronic Devices on Young Children's Development and Health: the iKids Study
Run by Sheffield Hallam University · NCT06810570 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how using tablets and smartphones affects the development and health of kids aged 3 to 4 years old to help parents and policymakers understand the pros and cons of screen time.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 36 Months to 48 Months |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 874 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Sheffield Hallam University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Sheffield and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 13, 2025 |
| Main results expected | January 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | January 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | December 19, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06810570 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 36 to 48 months who have parental consent and can provide verbal assent.
✕Probably not a fit
Children with clinically diagnosed developmental disorders or those whose parents do not speak or understand English may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates how the use of interactive electronic devices (IEDs) affects the development and health of children aged 36 to 48 months. Researchers will utilize mobile sensing software to track screen time and app usage on participants' devices, while also measuring various developmental outcomes such as cognitive abilities, physical health, and parent-child interactions. The study aims to provide clearer guidance for parents and policymakers regarding the benefits and harms of IED use in early childhood. By employing validated measurement tools and experienced researchers, the study seeks to contribute valuable insights to an area with conflicting evidence.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide evidence-based recommendations for parents on the safe and beneficial use of mobile devices for young children.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research on this specific approach, previous studies have shown mixed results regarding the impact of mobile devices on child development, indicating a need for further investigation.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Children between 36 and 48 months old at the time of enrolment, who have received parent/carer consent for participation and provided verbal assent Exclusion Criteria: * Parents or child do not speak and/or understand English. * Child who is clinically diagnosed with a developmental disorder by a medical professional prior to either baseline or follow-up assessments.
Where it's running
-
Sheffield Hallam University
Sheffield, United Kingdom Recruiting -
Early Years settings
Sheffield, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Liane Beretta de Azevedo, Professor — Sheffield Hallam University
- Study coordinator: Liane Beretta de Azevedo, Professor
- Email: l.azevedo@shu.ac.uk
- Phone: +44 (0) 114 225 5571
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.