October 15, 2012 

A causal link has been found between violent media and sleep problems in preschoolers, ages 3-5 years old.  In a study by Garrison et. al. in September's Pediatrics Journal, they evaluated 565 families for media use and then randomized them for a healthy media use intervention or no intervention.  

The intervention included a home visit by a case manager who encouraged age appropriate media to replace the violent and inappropriate content.  They then assessed sleep patterns at 6, 12 and 18 months post intervention.  Children in the non intervention group had a 38% increased risk of sleep onset latency.  

While this study is not surprising, it does reinforce the need to avoid this type of exposure.  I am always amazed at how many young kids (<10 yo) are playing games like Call Of Duty or Halo, both rated mature.  As a parent of 8 and 6 year old children, I am worried about the exposures that children get when visiting other children's homes.  Be aware of the effects of media on your kids.

It is in our best interest to politely let other parents know what your guidelines are for media viewing.  Prevention will save problems later.