More than 50% of 9-11 year-olds admit to using their electronic devices when they are supposed to be sleeping, according to a recent survey.

Findings by the University of Alberta reveal that parents need to take technology out of their children’s bedrooms so that they can sleep properly.

Electronic devices affect childrens’ sleep patterns

The research found that kids who use gadgets whilst in their bedroom such as a computer, TV or mobile phone, do not get enough rest.

Key findings include:

  • Children with one or more electronic devices in the bedroom are more likely to be obese or overweight.
  • 50% of the students surveyed had a TV, DVD player or video game console in their bedroom.
  • 21% of the kids had a computer.
  • 17% of the students had a mobile phone.
  • 5% had all three types of gadgets.
  • 57% of children watch TV and movies when they are supposed to be asleep.

Professor Paul Veugelers, co-author, said: “If you want your kids to sleep better and live a healthier lifestyle, get the technology out of the bedroom.”

Co-author Christina Fung added that children today are not sleeping as much as previous generations, with two-thirds not getting the recommended hours of sleep per night.

Almost 3,400 students aged 9-11 year-old were involved in the study.

Why is it so important?

A good night’s sleep has been linked to better academic outcomes, fewer mood disorders and other positive health outcomes.

With today’s society, British children are spending more time online than ever before. The latest report by Ofcom found that children are texting and using the World Wide Web on a daily basis. On average, 12-15 year-olds are sending 193 texts every single week and this figure has more than doubled from 12 months ago.

Further findings show that girls are the worse culprits who text significantly more (35%) than boys. And for the first time 12-15 year-olds are spending as much time on the internet as they do watching TV; an estimated 17 hours a week on each activity.

Get to grips with what media your children are using and protect them to help them get a good night rest. And as well as confiscating all their electronic devices, give them a made to measure mattress to boost their posture.

Check out our vast array of high quality, affordable bed bases and divans today.

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