Well-Being
are numerous apps on the open market that allow users to limit the disruptive blue wavelengths emitted from their devices.
Optimizing Your Child’s Sleep Environment Ideally, the bedroom should be for sleep only, and there are several ways to ensure the sleep environment facilitates — rather than interrupts — this process.
* Remove or limit access to media in the bedroom.
* Consider placing televisions in com- mon areas of the home only.
* Designate a nook within the house as the computer space, and avoid having a
desktop computer in the bedroom.
* Remove cell phones, smartphones and other mobile web-enabled gadgets from the bedroom. This means charging them overnight in another area of the home.
* Consider having your cellular provider set up restricted usage periods for your
child’s cell phone. For a small fee, many providers are able to restrict calls, messag- ing and/or data usage at certain times on designated phones. For instance, you can choose to turn off data completely over- night and allow only calls and messaging from a set list of parent-approved contacts.
* If removal of TVs, phones, computers and other devices with screens from the bedroom is unrealistic, consider turning them off or silencing the ringers and notifi cations.
* Limit noise disturbance.
* Too warm an environment will often disrupt sleep. Keep the temperature cool, and use blankets as needed for comfort.
* Ensure a cool ambient temperature.
* Dim any overhead lights as your child prepares for bed.
* Darken the room. 72
The bedroom is for sleep. Remove or limit media access
* Consider adding room-darkening window shades in the bedroom. As parents, it’s our role to look after the health of our children. Getting a good night’s rest has been shown to benefi t both a child’s physical and emotional health. Kids who sleep well are less likely to be responsible for car accidents, they perform better in school and they are better able to regulate their behavior and emotions. Great sleep enables kids to perform at their greatest potential. Ensur- ing a screen-free, cell phone-free space at night will not only benefi t your children in the short term, it will also teach healthy habits that can promote wellness long into their adult years.
* Avoid night-lights.
Sarah R. Kiser, CPNP-PC, is a PNP with nearly a decade of experience in pediatric nursing. She currently serves as the exclu- sive PNP in a school-based health center at the Dana Hall School, Wellesley, MA.
www.readysetgrowmag.com
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