Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about how technology effects childrens brain function and behaviour. You are not alone!
Q: How can technology affect my child’s sleep?
Screens on technological devices produce what is known as blue light which can alter the body and the body’s sleep habits as a result. Blue light is actually blue wavelengths that boost attention, reaction and mood therefore tricking the body into thinking that it is daytime. (Harvard Health, 2020). Blue light also diminishes the production of melatonin in the body causing the body’s biological clock to become confused and stay awake even though you want it to go to sleep.
Q: How much screen time should I be giving my child?
The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends the following: “For children under two years old screen time is not recommended. For children two to five years old limit screen time to less than one hour a day. For children older than five limit screen time to less than two hours a day” (Canadian Paediatric Society, n.d.). As the child gets older parents are to assess the situation as they know their child best and create screen time limits best suited to the child.
