![\"Screen](\"https:\/\/mallorcaglobalmag.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Menor-con-movil.webp\")
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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<\/strong>, according to the Analysis of Screen Use in Children Aged 0\u20136 in the Balearic Islands<\/em>.<\/p>\n Commissioned by the Ministry for Education and Universities<\/strong> and carried out by the University of the Balearic Islands<\/strong> (UIB), the report is the largest piece of research<\/strong> to date in the archipelago on screens and early childhood. The methodology is based on 8,991 questionnaires<\/strong> collected between April and July 2025 from families and professionals, offering a detailed snapshot of digital habits in the first years of life.<\/p>\n The data show that many children begin interacting with digital devices before their first birthday<\/strong>. Screens are present at key moments in daily routines<\/strong>, such as before going to school, during meals and before bedtime. Among the most commonly used devices are television (96%)<\/strong> and the mobile phone (94.9%)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The report also finds that while 95.8% of households have internet access<\/strong>, 86.6% of families say they lack the training, strategies or tools<\/strong> needed to properly support children in their use of screens.<\/p>\n Researchers warn that excessive exposure can have negative consequences for cognitive, emotional and social development<\/strong>. The most frequently cited effects include delays in language development<\/strong>, attention difficulties<\/strong>, problems with emotional regulation<\/strong>, as well as sleep disturbances and changes to eating habits<\/strong>.<\/p>\n As explained by Tomeu Mut, a researcher in UIB\u2019s Inclusive Schooling and Diversity Research Group (GREID) and co-author of the report alongside Sebasti\u00e0 Verger, using a mobile phone as a way to calm or entertain<\/strong> children can lead to dependency and difficulties managing frustration<\/strong>. The professionals consulted agree that reducing screen exposure leads to significant improvements<\/strong> in children\u2019s wellbeing.<\/p>\nUsage habits<\/h2>\n
Harmful effects on child development<\/h3>\n
Mobile-phone-free spaces<\/h3>\n