Tuesday, Apr 30 2024 | Updated at 02:22 PM EDT

Stay Connected With Us F T R

Apr 18, 2017 02:03 PM EDT

University of London's recent study reveals that toddlers that are gadget exposed have less hours of sleep compared to those who aren't. Toddlers who spend time with smartphones or tablets have 15 minutes less sleep compared to toddlers who do not. But, according to researchers, parents shouldn't be too worried about it.

The University of London study, which was published in Scientific Reports, says that every hour spent on gadgets every day translates to 15 minutes less sleep, BBC reported. The offset to that is, toddlers who are exposed to gadgets or spend time with smartphones or tablets have better motor skills than those who don't.

The experts say their study is very timely. Although it shows the adverse effects of spending time on gadgets, parents shouldn't really be too worried as this is the first time that toddler sleep and gadget exposure have been linked together, Engadget reported. It's too early to make proclamations banning gadgets on toddlers.

Moreover, the reduced amount of sleep isn't really a massive amount, especially when the child sleeps at 10-12 hours a day. For example, if the child's been exposed to a gadget for 25 minutes, he or she will sleep 6 minutes less than those who are not exposed to gadgets.

But this study will significantly be the cause of worry for parents especially because getting enough hours of sleep is crucial in brain development. This is according to Dr. Tim Smith who also says the brain's neuroplasticity, which is what is responsible in helping form new connections, is at its highest during infancy. Getting less hours of sleep will affect the formation of neurosplasticity.

If parents are torn whether or not to expose their toddlers to gadgets, a good recourse would be exposing them to physical toys and activities. The American Pediatrics Association recommends that children be exposed to gadgets only an hour per day. This is an advice which is also perfect for parents.

See Now: Covert Team Inside Newsweek Revealed as Key Players in False Human Trafficking Lawsuit

Follows toddlers, University of London, gadgets exposure, smartphones and tablets, neuroplasticity, brain development
© 2024 University Herald, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

Must Read

Common Challenges for College Students: How to Overcome Them

Oct 17, 2022 PM EDTFor most people, college is a phenomenal experience. However, while higher education offers benefits, it can also come with a number of challenges to ...

Top 5 Best Resources for Math Students

Oct 17, 2022 AM EDTMath is a subject that needs to be tackled differently than any other class, so you'll need the right tools and resources to master it. So here are 5 ...

Why Taking a DNA Test is Vital Before Starting a Family

Oct 12, 2022 PM EDTIf you're considering starting a family, this is an exciting time! There are no doubt a million things running through your head right now, from ...

By Enabling The Use Of Second-Hand Technology, Alloallo Scutter It's Growth While Being Economically And Environmentally Friendly.

Oct 11, 2022 PM EDTBrands are being forced to prioritise customer lifetime value and foster brand loyalty as return on advertising investment plummets. Several brands, ...