How Blue Light Tricks the Brain!

At night, blue light tricks the brain into thinking that it is daytime. Blue light (which is the light used in screens such as  ipads, televisions, and video games) causes the brain to stop the natural secretion of melatonin - which is a hormone that prepares our brain and body for sleep, when light (especially blue light) is no longer present in our environment. 

This can cause changes in sleep quality  and your child may become restless, wake up in the middle of the night, have difficulty falling asleep, or wake up tired and lethargic. For that reason, it's important to eliminate screens 3 hours before bedtime to allow the body to produce melatonin for a restful night’s sleep. 

If your child does get exposure to blue light, there are actionable steps you can take to reduce the effects of blue light exposure. 

Tips to reduce blue light exposure:

• Wear blue blocking glasses when the sun goes down and when your child is exposed to screen time. I love the following brand for children’s: Kids Blue Light Blockers – VivaRays. Use Code: BRAINHEALTH to receive an extra discount!

• Get outside during the day to get natural blue light

• Avoid bright screens and lights when the sun goes down

• Use salt lamps or red light bulbs in your child’s room 

Setting healthy boundaries with screen times and technology can make a world of difference in your child’s mood, behavior, learning, and focus.