Parents can help improve their children’s sleep quality
Are you aware that the use of cell phones and computers at bedtime can have harmful effects on sleep, particularly for children with special needs? Using strategies that reduce screen time and promote a calming bedtime routine, parents can help improve their children’s sleep quality. Here we highlight some of these harmful effects and ways to help avoid the impact that they may have on your child’s sleep.
The blue light that cell phones and computers give off can interfere with the production of melatonin (a hormone that regulates sleep) because blue light at night tricks the brain into thinking it is still daytime and this delays the melatonin, so your child will not feel sleepy. For children with autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or anxiety disorders – who may already have trouble with sleep patterns – this added interference can be disruptive. We suggest that electronic devices are turned off at least one to two hours before bedtime. This allows your child’s body to start producing melatonin and begin the natural process of winding down for sleep.
Videos, games, and ‘chatting’ on electronic devices are a source of stimulation that can lead to hyperactivity and the inability to relax. This can worsen conditions such as ADHD where hyperactivity is already a challenge. You could replace screen time with calming activities such as reading a book, listening to soothing music, or doing relaxation exercises. All these suggestions can help prepare your child for sleep. And remember, to provide a sense of security, this routine should be done every night.
Some of the content on computers can be distressing or overstimulating for children with anxiety disorders or other emotional and behavioural difficulties. Watching certain types of content can make it harder for these children to calm their minds and bodies before sleep. Fomo (the fear of missing out) and the pressures from social media can also increase anxiety levels. If avoiding screen time before bed creates a problem with your child, night mode settings or blue light filters on the devices can help reduce the impact of blue light exposure. We, however, stress that this should not be seen as a substitute for reducing overall screen time.
Children with special needs usually thrive on routine. The use of electronic devices at bedtime can disrupt bedtime routines. This can lead to disrupted sleep patterns that can be problematic for children with autism who, for their own comfort and stability, usually rely on structured routines. Educating your child about the importance of a good night’s sleep and involving him/her in creating a bedtime routine can be helpful. Empowering children with knowledge and giving them a sense of control can make it easier for them to keep to these guidelines.
For more information: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/how-electronics-affect-sleep