Electronics May Be Depriving Children Of Much-Needed Sleep
By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Anybody who is in the baby boomer age group grew up at a time when there were fewer distractions and, as a child, it was made clear that bedtime and rest were extremely important.
Things are a bit different these days. According to a survey of more than 1,100 parents, children aren't getting the sleep they need.
Here is the breakdown: children in the 6-10 age range appear to be getting only 85% of what they need, and 15-17 year olds get 78%. It doesn't take a scientific study to figure out the reasons - although in this case one was done anyway!
Three in four children between 6 and 17 have at least one electronic device in their bedroom. This amounts to on average one hour less sleep than those without devices.
In case you are wondering, 6-10 year olds should get 10 to 11 hours. After age 10, nine hours is the goal.
