There is a screen time epidemic.
Excessive screen time can disrupt preschoolers’ sleep and may contribute to behavioral problems, turning them into more difficult children at home, according to a new study. The research, published on December 12 in Early Child Development and Care, highlights how poor sleep can worsen issues such as poor attention, hyperactivity, and mood swings in young children.
The study also suggests a vicious cycle, where screen time and poor sleep exacerbate each other. Dr. Bowen Xiao, a researcher at Carleton University, explained that this cycle increases the risk of hyperactivity, anxiety, and depression. The study surveyed 571 preschool children, aged 3 to 6, and their mothers, who provided information about their children’s screen time, behavior, and sleep patterns.
The researchers found that too much screen time left children’s brains overstimulated, which in turn led to poor sleep quality and shorter sleep duration. Yan Li, a researcher from Shanghai Normal University, noted that previous studies have already linked screen time to hyperactivity and emotional problems in children. The current study suggests that disrupted sleep could be a key factor.
Lead author Shujin Zhou explained that screens may delay bedtime and disrupt sleep cycles due to overstimulation and blue light exposure. In addition, screen time might replace sleep time, increasing arousal and making it harder for children to fall asleep.
The findings suggest potential solutions for addressing hyperactivity and mood issues in children. Zhou emphasized two important points: controlling screen use could improve sleep and behavior, and addressing sleep problems could help counteract the negative effects of excessive screen time on young children.
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