Key result
Smartwatch-based biofeedback was perceived as a feasible adjunct to preschool routines for noticing bodily states, though hardware fit, responsiveness, and delivery variation reduced usefulness.
Why the study?
This study explored the feasibility and perceived value of integrating smartwatch-based biofeedback, specifically heart-rate visualization, into preschool emotional learning activities.
Smartwatch-based biofeedback may be a feasible adjunct to preschool classroom routines for emotional learning when paired with adult co-regulation, though child-appropriate hardware is needed.
Supports feasibility of smartwatch biofeedback in preschool emotional learning; hypothesis-generating and requires controlled trials before broader adoption.
This qualitative pilot explored the feasibility and perceived value of integrating smartwatch-based biofeedback (heart-rate visualization) into preschool emotional learning activities. Using a qualitative feasibility design with reflexive thematic analysis, we analyzed field notes and semi-structured interviews with preschool teachers, undergraduate facilitators, and parents (N = 20). Participants reported that brief activities combining movement, guided breathing, and real-time heart-rate displays provided developmentally appropriate cues for noticing bodily states and discussing regulation strategies. Smartwatch limitations (fit and responsiveness) and variation in delivery reduced usefulness. Findings suggest smartwatch-based biofeedback may be a feasible adjunct to classroom routines when paired with adult co-regulation and explicit instruction, although implementation supports and child-appropriate hardware are needed. These findings highlight challenges and design considerations for early childhood settings and suggest that real-time physiological feedback may support young children's awareness of internal bodily cues, warranting further study.
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Corvini et al. (2026) studied Preschool emotional learning (n=20). Smartwatch-based biofeedback (heart-rate visualization) was evaluated on Feasibility and perceived value. Smartwatch-based biofeedback was perceived as a feasible adjunct to preschool routines for noticing bodily states, though hardware fit, responsiveness, and delivery variation reduced usefulness.
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