A large number of American children aren't getting the right amount of sleep, and most are sleeping with electronic devices in the bedroom, according to a survey from the National Sleep Foundation (NSF).
The survey indicated that children in all age groups weren't getting enough sleep. Over 1,100 parents of children between the ages of six and 17 were asked to estimate the amount of time their children slept on an average school night. Children in all of the age groups slept fewer hours than recommended by the NSF. 72 percent of children had at least one electronic device in their bedroom while they were sleeping.
"To ensure a better night's sleep for their children, parents may want to limit their children using technology in their bedroom near or during bedtime," poll task force member Orfeu Buxton, Ph.D. said in a statement.
The survey indicated that teens who slept while devices were on slept on average half an hour less on school nights compared to those teens who slept without devices. Experts usually recommend turning off all electronic devices at least an hour prior to going to sleep, given that they stimulate the brain and suppress the release of the sleep-promotion hormone melatonin.
"Noise will disturb your sleep, especially if it's left on," said Dr. Kristen Knutson with the National Sleep Foundation. "The more interactive devices - like video games or their tablets - are mentally stimulating."
According to Knutson, the study found that children whose parents regularly enforced rules regarding how late electronic devices could be used got more sleep than those whose parents did not. The study also indicated that one in four parents sent a text or email after they went to bed at least once within the last week.
The study indicated that parents value their children's sleep. Over 90 percent said sleep is very or extremely important for their children to do their best at school and to be their healthiest and happiest.
There are steps parents can take to help their children get more sleep.
"A good first step in setting and enforcing sleep-related rules is to establish bedtimes," poll task force member Jim Spilsbury, Ph.D., MPH said in a statement.
Aside from limiting devices in the bedroom, parents can also enforce times where caffeinated drinks or TV are cut off. Parents can also help by being good role models, which includes limiting electronic devices in their own bedrooms. The survey indicated that less than a quarter of children have a smartphone, laptop or video game in their bedroom if their parents do not.
