Advancing Early Childhood Research at the British Early Childhood Education Research Association (BECERA) Conference | 16 February | Birmingham, UK
On 16 February, colleagues from the UAE presented their latest research at the British Early Childhood Education Research Association (BECERA) Conference held in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Exploring Screen Time in the UAE Context
Hala presented her paper, “Contextual Drivers of Screen Time in Early Childhood: A Multilevel Analysis in the UAE.” Her research examined the factors shaping screen use among young children in the United Arab Emirates, a society where digital access is widespread and exposure to screens often begins early in life.
Despite the UAE’s highly developed technological landscape, regional research exploring the broader contextual influences on young children’s media use remains limited. By identifying influences at multiple levels, including family, social, and environmental factors—the study contributes to informed policy discussions and offers families clearer, evidence-based guidance to support healthy and balanced screen habits.
The presentation sparked meaningful dialogue, particularly around the high levels of screen use observed across the Gulf region. The conference also provided a valuable opportunity to engage with international scholars, attend insightful sessions, and reflect on how global perspectives can strengthen and deepen research within the UAE context.
Parental Perspectives on AI in Family Life
At the same conference, Khadija presented a research poster highlighting findings from a mixed-methods study exploring parental sentiments toward artificial intelligence in family life.
Drawing on in-depth interviews with parents of young children, the study moves beyond broad debates about screen time to offer a nuanced understanding of how families are negotiating AI’s growing presence in children’s everyday experiences and development.
Her presentation prompted rich and thought-provoking discussions about the implications of emerging technologies in early childhood. Engaging with researchers working at the forefront of digital childhood studies reinforced the importance of continuing evidence-based conversations around technology, parenting, and child development in an increasingly digital world.
Together, these contributions reflect a growing commitment to advancing regionally grounded, internationally informed research that supports children, families, and educators in navigating today’s evolving digital landscape.
