Screen time and sleep in children.

ABSTRACT

QUESTION I continue to hear concerns from parents in my practice about the frequent use of light-emitting devices by their children. I have also found that many children suffer from sleep disturbances. What are the effects of screen time on sleep, and what are some best practices for sleep hygiene and screen use among children? ANSWER Screen time is higher now than before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and knowledge about the effects of screen time is evolving. Spending time in front of a screen may replace sleep time or sleep-promoting activities such as exercise, and the engaging content and social interactions on screens interfere with falling asleep. Evidence exists on the disruption of the circadian rhythm by light emitted by screens. Advice to families should include sleep hygiene activities as well as elimination of screen use at least 1 hour before sleep.