Less Screen Time Is Key to Better Sleep in Kids

More than 70% of kids between ages 6-17 sleep with at least one electronic device in their bedroom. What’s the harm in that? Research shows screen time close to bedtime can have negative side effects on kids’ sleep.

The Facts

Too much screen time before bed can lead to:

• An elevated body mass index, which can cause weight gain
• Frequent headaches
• Lost sleep (about one hour of sleep per night)
• Worsened symptoms in children with ADHD, anxiety disorders and depression

Why Tech Affects Kids’ Sleep

The blue light produced by electronic devices signals the body to stay alert by reducing melatonin production. Melatonin is the natural chemical that induces sleepiness and tells the body to wind down.

Screen time right before bedtime also stimulates the brain when it should power down, sending mixed signals to the body and making it more difficult to fall asleep.

Tips for Better Sleep

Create a better bedtime routine by:

• Cutting screen time off one hour before bedtime
• Removing all electronic devices from the bedroom at night
• Creating designated tech or activity areas outside of the bedroom

Learn More

If your child is having issues sleeping, our Meritas Health pediatricians can help.

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Mallory Krahn

Mallory Krahn, MD, a pediatrician with Meritas Health Pediatrics, earned her medical degree from the University of Kansas and completed her pediatric residency at the University of Iowa. She seeks to partner and grow with families through relationship-building, so children can stay strong and healthy. She enjoys the variety of pediatric medicine and has a special interest in adolescents and helping them work through their unique challenges. She also provides newborn care, sports physicals and well-child checkups, along with treatment for a variety of conditions, including anxiety, asthma and depression. In her free time, she enjoys backpacking, walking her dogs and cooking new recipes with her husband.