The more time a young child spends with screens, the less they sleep. A new study published on Nature.com—led by researchers from Birkbeck University of London, University College London, and King's College London—highlights this effect in children aged six months to three years. Each additional hour of screen exposure cuts sleep by nearly 16 minutes.
Blue light from smartphones and tablets disrupts melatonin, the hormone that governs sleep, in adults—and children may face the same issue. The team surveyed 715 parents on their child's screen use (TV and touchscreens), daily/nighttime sleep duration, and quality. Key stats: Nearly half of 6-11-month-olds encounter screens daily, rising to 92% for two-year-olds. Each screen hour meant 15.6 fewer minutes of sleep and longer time to nod off. Beyond blue light, screens distract and may signal hyperactivity via sleep issues.
In short: Moderation with screens benefits children, just as it does adults!
