This master's thesis investigates excessive screen use among preschool children in kindergartens. Through qualitative research, I have gathered the experiences, observations, and perspectives of counselors in kindergartens regarding this issue. The results indicate that screens significantly impact children's development, with counselors pointing to specific behaviors observed in children that they associate with excessive screen use. This issue brings new challenges to kindergartens, requiring the adaptation of approaches and methods for working with children. Challenges also arise in collaboration with parents, who often regardign the counselors' opinions struggle with excessive screen use themselves. Parents frequently use screens as a tool for calming their children, enabling them to cope with other challenges and responsibilities. Since many children are exposed to screens continuously in the home environment, it is crucial for educators to integrate screens into the kindergarten setting thoughtfully and critically, primarily through carefully planned activities in older children's groups. The counseling service plays a key role in addressing this issue, as it provides guidance and support to both parents and other professionals in kindergartens, helping them cope with the challenges brought by digitalization. Furthermore, counselors play a vital role in raising awareness about the issue of excessive screen use and in planning preventive activities. This research contributes to a better understanding of this issue and offers insights into potential solutions for reducing the negative effects of excessive screen use among preschool children.
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