Investigation of the relationship between attention level and digital parenting of 60-72 months-old preschool children

ABSTRACT Investigation of the Relationship Between Attention Level and Digital Parenting of 60-72 Months-Old Preschool Children Aim: This study aims to investigate the relationship between the attention levels of preschool children aged 60–72 months and their parents' digital parenting skills. Materials and Methods: The research was conducted with 440 children aged 60–72 months and their parents, enrolled in kindergartens and independent preschools affiliated with the Ministry of National Education in the city center of Malatya, Turkey. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Frankfurter Attention Test, and the Digital Parenting Awareness Scale. A relational survey model, one of the quantitative research methods, was employed in the study. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS statistical software, utilizing correlation analysis, ANOVA, and t-tests. Results: The analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between children's scores on the Frankfurter Attention Test and certain variables such as parental education level, occupation, the child's gender, and whether the child had prior school experience or received preparatory education. No significant relationship was found between children's attention levels and other sociodemographic factors. Regarding digital parenting, significant differences in Digital Parenting Awareness Scale scores were observed based on the parent's gender, education level, occupation, closeness to the child, daily duration of digital technology use outside of work, as well as the child's duration of digital technology use, age of first exposure to digital devices, and the presence of chronic or permanent health conditions. However, no significant differences were found in relation to the parent's age, number of children, economic status, family structure, or the child's age, birth order, and previous school attendance or preparatory education. Conclusion: Correlation analysis indicated no significant relationship between children's attention levels and parents' digital parenting skills. Keywords: Attention, Digital parenting, Preschool education