Criteria for selecting apps: debating the perceptions of young children, parents and industry stakeholders

It is indisputable that young children are exposed to digital media since birth and start using them very early. This fuels debate that engages scholars and researchers, industry and brands, policymakers, and parents. Our study aimed to contrast these different perspectives, adding the view of children, who are frequently left out of this debate. Using an exploratory qualitative approach, we conducted interviews with children under 8 years old and their parents in 81 families, and with 17 expert stakeholders in different fields. We focused on their perceptions and practices regarding digital media, and specifically on how they assess and select apps, concluding that parents value safety and learning, children enjoy entertainment, and stakeholders highlight the importance of a good user experience.