O desenvolvimento infantil na corda bamba da tecnologia: entre desafios e potencialidades

Abstract

Technology has become increasingly integrated into all aspects of our lives, especially during early childhood. From televisions to mobile devices such as cell phones, tablets, and laptops, children are increasingly exposed to a variety of screens in their daily activities. This research aimed to identify how technologies are being used by children and how they influence their development. A Qualitative Approach and Bibliographic Research were used, with Historical-Cultural Psychology as the theoretical framework, emphasizing the concepts of Vygotsky. A total of 19 articles published between 2016 and 2024 were analyzed, organized into three thematic axes: the use of technology by children in the pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic periods; the impacts of excessive use on child development; and alternatives for healthier use. The results indicate that early and unregulated contact with digital devices can compromise children’s cognitive, emotional, and social development, affecting skills such as language, attention, self-regulation, and creativity, as well as causing harm to symbolic play and socialization. It is recognized that technology can be an ally in the educational process when its use is mediated consciously, intentionally, and affectively by adults. It is concluded that the main challenge is to promote a critical and balanced digital culture that integrates screen use with meaningful childhood experiences, valuing play, emotional bonding, and social interactions. In this way, it is believed that technologies can positively contribute to the child’s holistic development.