As a parent a good night sleep, undisturbed by little ones
demands, is a precious thing indeed. The excitement of this time of year and
the possibilities of parties and presents are more than enough to make children
less inclined to settle quickly and easily to sleep. Unfortunately some of the
things introduced to our children from toddler hood to teenage years are not
particularly helpful with regard to sleep.
Before the explosion of technological entertainment, we
followed natures’ pattern of light and night. The sun rose in the morning,
bringing bright blue/white light which encouraged our bodies to release
Cortisol, the hormone of waking and working. Then, as the day progressed,
natural light altered its colors towards orange/red. This, along with other
zietgebers such as meal times, encouraged the production of Melatonin, the
sleep hormone.
Nowadays television, mobile phone apps, computers and
computer games work using fast editing techniques which “excite” the brain.
They also use blue/white light which encourages the release of Cortisol, and
this reduces the release of Melatonin.
This is why sleep professionals encourage parents to ban
computers, television and mobile phone games, for the last hour before bed
time. This hour is precious, and should
be used to “wind down” from the days events. Using entertainments which
encourage hand eye co-ordination are more helpful in the later part of the day,
and should form part of a pre bed routine.
If you have concerns about your child's sleep contact me on info@dream-angus.com
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