THE ROLE OF PARENTS IN PREVENTING GADGET ADDICTION IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN THROUGH GEMA CERIA (MINIMAL GADGET MOVEMENT, CREATING CLOSE CHILD INTERACTION SPACES) HEALTH EDUCATION

Abstract

Excessive gadget use among preschool children has become a growing concern in the community, particularly due to its negative impact on psychosocial, emotional, and behavioral development. In Dusun Darungan, Desa Jubung, many parents tend to use gadgets as substitutes for caregiving because of daily activities, resulting in reduced parent–child interaction and increased risk of gadget addiction in children. This community service program aimed to enhance parents’ knowledge and awareness of their role in preventing gadget addiction in preschool children through GEMA CERIA (Minimal Gadget Movement, Creating Close Child Interaction Spaces) health education. The program was conducted at PAUD Nurul Hidayah using health education methods that combined counseling, demonstrations, and interactive discussions, supported by educational leaflets. The target participants were parents and preschool children aged 3–6 years. Evaluation was carried out through oral pre-test and post-test assessments. The results showed an improvement in parents’ understanding of the dangers of excessive gadget use, signs of gadget addiction, and the importance of limiting screen time while increasing direct social interaction and alternative stimulating activities. Parents also demonstrated increased awareness of their role as role models in gadget use. In conclusion, GEMA CERIA health education effectively increased parental awareness and understanding in preventing gadget addiction among preschool children. It is recommended that parents consistently apply screen time limitations, select age-appropriate content, and actively engage in interactive, non-gadget-based activities to support optimal child development.