<![CDATA[The development of digital technology has increased gadget use among young children. Although gadgets can be used as learning media, excessive use may affect children's social-emotional development. This study aimed to describe gadget use and the social-emotional development of children aged 3–5 years at Pos PAUD Karan Gunungsari, Bojonegoro Regency. A qualitative approach was employed, involving eight children selected through systematic random sampling. Data were collected through teacher observations and questionnaires completed by parents and analyzed descriptively. The findings showed that most children used gadgets every day with relatively high frequency and duration, although parents had implemented restrictions. Teacher observations indicated that the children's social-emotional development was generally categorized as good, with achievement percentages ranging from 70.83% to 91.67%. The highest achievement was found in the ability to express feelings, while the lowest was related to self-confidence when speaking or performing in front of peers. Parental supervision and restrictions on gadget use may support children's social-emotional development. Therefore, collaboration between parents and teachers is needed to regulate gadget use and provide children with more opportunities for direct play and social interaction.]]>
Copyrights © 2026
