My child stays up late on the phone: how to fix bedtime
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends turning off all screens at least an hour before bedtime, and keeping TVs, computers, tablets and phones out of children's bedrooms, especially at night.
How much sleep does your child need?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics: ages 3 to 5, 10 to 13 hours (including naps); ages 6 to 12, 9 to 12 hours; ages 13 to 18, 8 to 10 hours.
Why screens affect sleep
A screen before bed keeps the brain active, and exciting content makes kids want "one more episode". A phone in the room tempts them back after lights out.
1. A screen-free hour before bed
Pick a time when all screens go off, at least an hour before bedtime, and keep it the same every day.
2. The phone sleeps outside the room
A fixed charging spot outside the bedrooms, for everyone including parents, makes the rule fair and easy.
3. A calm routine instead of a screen
A bath, a story, a short chat about the day. A calm routine tells the body that bedtime is near.
4. Roughly the same rule on holidays
Changing bedtime a lot during holidays makes going back to school harder. Keep it close to the usual time.
How Kite helps
On the Family plan, Kite lets you schedule bedtime hours, when the apps you choose pause automatically at the time you set, so you don't have to remind anyone every night.
Make and print a free chore chart for your child →
Quick answers
When should screens be turned off before bed?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends turning off all screens at least one hour before bedtime.
How much sleep does an 8-year-old need?
Between 9 and 12 hours a day, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Source: AAP — Healthy Sleep Habits: How Many Hours Does Your Child Need? (HealthyChildren.org)
Last updated: · The Kite team
