Pemberdayaan Orang Tua melalui Metode Interaktif untuk Mitigasi Dampak Negatif Gadget pada Anak Usia Dini

Abstract

The rapid advancement of digital technology has significantly altered modern family dynamics, notably leading to excessive screen time among children. While global data indicates that more than three-quarters of toddlers exceed safe screen time limits, local mitigation strategies often remain inadequate. This community service program aimed to empower parents and increase their awareness regarding the negative impacts of excessive gadget use on early childhood development. Conducted using a participatory approach in Lingsar Village, West Lombok, the program involved 10 parents of children aged 0–12 years. The intervention methods included interactive lectures, focused group discussions (FGD), and case study analyses. The evaluation results demonstrated significant behavioral commitment; 85% of the participants pledged to reduce their children's screen time and substitute it with constructive alternatives, such as outdoor play and reading. Furthermore, the program successfully fostered parents' realization of their critical role as digital role models. In conclusion, participatory educational interventions are effective in initiating parental commitment to managing children's digital consumption and promoting healthier developmental environments.