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We often hear that it is crucial to establish a regular bedtime for children. A new scientific study explains the reasons and highlights the impact of this routine on their well-being.
Routines provide structure to children’s lives, and bedtime is a key part of that. Maintaining a fixed time for sleeping every night promotes their emotional and behavioral development. But why is it so beneficial? American researchers conducted a study to understand its effects.
Analyze children’s sleep and emotions
To assess the impact of this regularity, scientists studied the behavior of 143 six-year-old children. Using monitors attached to their wrists, they analyzed different aspects of their sleep, including bedtime and nocturnal awakenings. But the study didn’t stop there: the researchers also observed their behavior during the day in order to establish links between sleep regularity and emotion management.
Fun experiences to test their patience
Two experiments were set up to explore this relationship.
In the first, children had to choose a toy placed in a locked transparent box. They were given a set of keys, but none allowed them to open the box immediately. After a few minutes of waiting, they were finally given the key to access the toy. This experiment aimed to assess their patience and their ability to manage frustration.
The second experience consisted of decorating a photo frame with the help of their parents. The researchers observed and classified their behavior based on their level of cooperation or, conversely, their opposition to the activity.
A bedtime routine to better manage your emotions
The results are clear: children who went to bed at a regular time each evening, with a maximum variation of 20 minutes, had better control of their emotions and behavior. On the other hand, those whose bedtimes varied showed more impulsivity and had more difficulty controlling themselves.
Adwoa Dadzie, first author of the study, explains: “Children who had regular bedtimes were generally able to better regulate their behaviors and emotions. In contrast, those with irregular sleep schedules demonstrated increased impulsivity and less control.“
She adds: “The results clearly show that sleep regularity is essential to promote prosocial and age-appropriate behaviors in children..”
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The importance of a structured education
Orfeu Buxton, head of the study, adds: “Parental education plays a fundamental role. When parents establish clear routines and respond appropriately to their children’s needs, children perform better in emotional and behavioral regulation, even years later.”
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