Sleep is essential for children’s growth, learning, and emotional regulation. Yet for many families, bedtime struggles are common—and sometimes the culprit isn’t sugar or overstimulation from play, but exposure to violent content. From TV shows and movies to video games and even online clips, children are often consuming media that may be far more intense than their developing brains can handle. The effects don’t end when the screen turns off.
In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere—phones, tablets, computers, TVs, and even classroom technology. While these tools can be educational and entertaining, parents often wonder how screen time affects children’s sleep. Research shows that too much screen exposure, especially close to bedtime, can interfere with the quality and quantity of children’s rest.
Sleep is a cornerstone of health and development, especially for school-aged children. Yet, with early school start times, extracurricular activities, and increasing screen time, many children and teenagers aren’t getting the sleep they need. The consequences go beyond tiredness—lack of sleep significantly affects behavior, emotional regulation, and academic performance in school. Let’s explore how sleep influences school behavior and what parents and educators can do to help.