Children’s bedtime media device usage ‘more than doubles risk of poor sleep’

A new UK study has offered further evidence of the negative impact that using media devices in bed can have on sleep quality in children.

The King's College London research reviewed the findings of 20 existing studies from four continents, involving more than 125,000 children aged six to 19. Previous research shows 72 percent of children and 89 percent of adolescents have at least one device in their bedrooms, with most used near bedtime.

Analysis indicated that using smartphones and tablets within 90 minutes of going to sleep was associated with an increased likelihood of inadequate sleep quantity, poor sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Indeed, the very presence of a media device in the bedroom – even when unused – was associated with an increased likelihood of poor sleep, as the always-on nature of social media and instant messaging means children are constantly engaged with devices.

Overall, it was shown that children using media devices at bedtime are more than twice as likely to experience a disrupted night's sleep.

Dr Ben Carter from King's College London said: "Our findings suggest that an integrated approach involving parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals is necessary to reduce access to these devices and encourage good sleeping habits near bedtime."

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