Expert Links Children's Sleep Disorders to Environmental Changes and Device Use

Child sleep consultant and psychologist Yelena Matveeva explained that children's sleep disorders stem from nervous system stress, primarily due to changes in their surrounding environment.

She highlighted that this environmental change involves continuous use of electronic devices, which extends the time the nervous system requires to reach a calm state. Matveeva pointed out that blue light emitted from device screens disrupts melatonin production, resulting in sensory fatigue.

“Within just 20 minutes, a child is exposed to more intense stimuli than during an entire evening of traditional play,” she said. “The nervous system needs time to return to calmness, so it is recommended to remove electronic devices at least one hour before bedtime.”

The expert also identified a fast-paced and busy lifestyle as a cause of sleep disturbances in children. Early engagement in activities, studying, and training delays their sleep time. She emphasized the importance of maintaining daytime naps, even at school age, due to their significance.

Contrary to popular belief that tired children fall asleep faster, Matveeva clarified that an exhausted nervous system actually takes longer to relax. She stressed the necessity of organizing a child's daily routine and treating sleep as a fundamental need affecting growth.

“The earlier parents recognize sleep as a core health component, the easier it becomes to regulate it for the entire family,” she added.

Additionally, Dr. Anna Shatrafkina noted that insufficient sleep may indicate excessive electronic device use among children. She stated that normally, a child or adolescent should be able to calmly put down their phone during meals, outings, or conversations with parents. Excessive attachment to the phone and tantrums when it is taken away might signal the onset of addictive behavior.