As I was browsing the news this week, I came across an article on myhealthnewsdaily.com discussing the link between childhood obesity and bedroom TVs. Check out the link below to read the article:
The new study discussed in the article was published in the January issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
As a parent, it’s up to you to instill healthy habits in your children. According to the new study discussed above, having a TV in a child’s bedroom is linked to reduced sleep, which is a factor that’s been associated with weight gain. I recommend children have limited electronics in their bedrooms, and all electronics should be turned off at least one hour before bedtime. This will aid your child in winding down and getting the body ready for bed. Which particular electronics are permitted in your child’s bedroom is up to you as a parent; what’s most important is the rules set around electronic use and bedtime.
Helping your child establish a healthy and consistent bedtime routine is extremely important for improved quality of sleep. It can also decrease problems such as nightmares and fear of sleeping alone. Talk with your child and work together to establish a consistent bedtime routine. Here’s an example:
Abby’s Bedtime Routine:
Turn off all electronics by 7 p.m. No electronics in bed.
Take a bath, brush teeth, put on pajamas
Story with Mom or Dad, 7:30 or 7:45 p.m.
Bedtime song with Mom/Dad or Daily Gratitude Discussion, 8 or 8:15 p.m. (see November 10th blog on Daily Gratitude)
8:30 bedtime, sleeping in own bed
Sweet dreams…