Can Screen Time Affect Your Child’s Sleep?

Yes, screen time can potentially affect a baby’s sleep before going to bed. Exposure to screens, such as televisions, smartphones, tablets, and computers, can have several negative impacts on a baby’s sleep which is why we want to ensure we are switching off screens 30 minutes before bed.

Instead of screen time, you can take your child into their room no matter their age and read some stories or sing some soft songs with them to signal that bedtime is close. If they are older, explaining the processes of why you are turning off the TV/screens can be really beneficial and save you a meltdown!

1. Blue light exposure: Screens emit blue light, which can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Exposure to blue light, especially in the evening, can signal to the body that it’s time to be awake, making it harder for a baby to settle down and fall asleep.

2. Stimulation: Content on screens is often visually and audibly stimulating, which can excite and engage a baby’s brain. This heightened level of stimulation may make it more difficult for the baby to wind down and transition to a calm state before bedtime.

3. Disruption of bedtime routine: Engaging in screen time close to bedtime can disrupt established bedtime routines. Consistent routines, such as reading a book or having a calming bath, help signal to a baby that it’s time to sleep. Screen time may interfere with these calming activities.

4. Delayed bedtime: The use of screens can lead to delayed bedtimes if a baby becomes engrossed in the content. Delayed bedtimes may result in insufficient sleep, which can have negative effects on a baby’s overall well-being.

To promote better sleep hygiene for babies, it’s generally recommended to establish a consistent bedtime routine that avoids screen time at least 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Instead, engaging in calming activities, such as reading a book, singing a lullaby, or dimming the lights, can help create a conducive environment for sleep. Additionally, creating a dark and quiet sleep environment can further support healthy sleep habits for babies.