Screen use in early childhood has become a growing concern in the Balearic Islands. 91.6% of families believe there is widespread and excessive use of digital devices among children under six, according to the Analysis of Screen Use in Children Aged 0–6 in the Balearic Islands.
Commissioned by the Ministry for Education and Universities and carried out by the University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), the report is the largest piece of research to date in the archipelago on screens and early childhood. The methodology is based on 8,991 questionnaires collected between April and July 2025 from families and professionals, offering a detailed snapshot of digital habits in the first years of life.
Usage habits
The data show that many children begin interacting with digital devices before their first birthday. Screens are present at key moments in daily routines, such as before going to school, during meals and before bedtime. Among the most commonly used devices are television (96%) and the mobile phone (94.9%).
The report also finds that while 95.8% of households have internet access, 86.6% of families say they lack the training, strategies or tools needed to properly support children in their use of screens.
Harmful effects on child development
Researchers warn that excessive exposure can have negative consequences for cognitive, emotional and social development. The most frequently cited effects include delays in language development, attention difficulties, problems with emotional regulation, as well as sleep disturbances and changes to eating habits.
As explained by Tomeu Mut, a researcher in UIB’s Inclusive Schooling and Diversity Research Group (GREID) and co-author of the report alongside Sebastià Verger, using a mobile phone as a way to calm or entertain children can lead to dependency and difficulties managing frustration. The professionals consulted agree that reducing screen exposure leads to significant improvements in children’s wellbeing.
Mobile-phone-free spaces
In light of these findings, the Government will promote the creation of mobile-phone-free spaces in all public premises accessed by children aged 0 to 6, including educational, healthcare and social facilities. The initiative will be accompanied by official signage to identify these areas and raise awareness among adults and professionals.
During the presentation of the report, the Minister for Education and Universities, Antoni Vera, stressed that protecting early childhood requires a joint effort by institutions, centres and families, and called for responsible use of mobile devices in the presence of children, especially during shared moments and daily routines.
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