The first years are crucial for a baby’s healthy development. Technology plays an increasingly important role in our lives in modern times, but parents should be aware of the effect that too much screen time has on their child’s sleep quality and development.
It can be hard to distance children from a computer or mobile screen, but sleep experts point to a few side effects that children may experience if they are exposed to too much screen time.
Children who immerse themselves in computer games may not feel a strong desire to play outside. Childcare experts also found that when children spend too much time playing computer games, they can develop mood or attention disorders. This causes a chain of related issues such as learning difficulties, reading problems, and sleeping problems.
Babies are especially sensitive to screens, and it may have consequences for their bedtime routine or the quality of sleep they experience if they are exposed to plenty of screen time. When babies experience 9 month sleep regression, they need to follow a fixed sleeping schedule and bedtime routine to ensure they get enough sleep.
The body needs to follow a natural circadian rhythm during the evening that prepares the body for sleep by releasing melatonin, but blue light from computer screens or smartphones can suppress melatonin levels and delay sleepiness, disrupting the natural sleep-wake cycle. It is crucial that parents limit their children’s screen time to improve their sleep quality.
Children get a lot more screen time today, and parents should do more to limit this. Computer and TV screens should be switched off during the evening to promote better sleep. Sleep experts agree that a few minutes of educational programming during the day is perfect. Screen time should never interfere with naptimes or sleeping schedules.