'I can do this by my own self': how four preschool-aged children navigated mobile technologies at home.

Technology use among preschool-aged children (3 to 5 years old) is increasing significantly. Most of this use occurs at home, however, there is little research that investigates how it is affecting family relations and dynamics. This comparative case study explored the social practices of mobile technology in four preschool-aged children from two families. The research question was: How do preschool-aged children technically, socially, and physically navigate interactions with, around, and through mobile technology? Data was collected in the children's homes over two years. Pierre Bourdieu's social practice theory was used as a lens for analyzing the data. Results revealed that all of the preschool-aged children in this study strongly desired mobile technology for its perceived ability to satisfy their evolving and diverse interests and capabilities. Their navigations involved a drive for gaining access and for social interaction and engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]