10 September 2009
Researchers from Monash University have found that children who are more active during the day take less time to fall asleep at night and sleep more soundly.
The sleeping patterns of over 500 children were studied by the research team who found that the time it takes children to fall asleep is extended by three minutes for every hour that they are inactive.
Furthermore, the researchers also found that active children also sleep for longer than their more sedentary counterparts.
Watching television had the same effect as reading. Both physically inactive tasks resulted in children taking longer to nod off.
"As short sleep duration is associated with obesity and lower cognitive performance, community emphasis on the importance of promoting healthy sleep in children is vitally important," the researchers wrote.
"This study emphasises the importance of physical activity for children, not only for fitness, cardiovascular health and weight control, but also for sleep," they added.
The children in the study took an average of 26 minutes to fall asleep with the majority of children falling asleep within 45 minutes.
For more information contact Karen Sutherland, Research Communications Manager on +61 3 9903 4844 or 0431 959 510.
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