… Concentration and behaviour were affected when children were allowed to have TVs or computers in their bedrooms

Scientists say that TVs and computers for children should be banned from their bedrooms. Children who watch TV in the bedroom are less likely to exercise and be tired at bedtime – with researchers insisting that getting a good night’s sleep is particularly important for pre-teens.

Scientists have warned that electronic devices can disturb sleep, leading to memory problems and poorer marks in school.

Researchers from Finland asked 353 children aged 10 to 11 about their TV and computer use and their sleeping habits and quizzed them again 18 months later.

The more a child played on the computer or watched the TV, the later they went to bed. They also slept less on school nights.

Findings reported in the journal BMC Public Health says that having a TV or computer in the bedroom appeared to be particularly disruptive for boys.

The Finnish researchers, based at the University of Helsinki, said that children who play a lot on computers may exercise far less and so be less tired at bedtime.

Hormonal changes, particularly during puberty, brought on by the light of the screens could also make it more difficult to get to sleep.

Researcher Teija Nuutinen, of the University of Helsinki, said that electronic devices should be kept out of children’s bedrooms, and added:

… Children need extra sleep as they go through puberty but our study finds that TV and computer use affect the sleep of children. 

… This is especially true during the week and may be impacting their school work as well as their development. 

… Media viewing habits should be considered for children who are tired and struggling to concentrate, or who have behaviour problems caused by lack of sleep.