How children's evening screen time affects their sleep and thinking skills

Experimental effects of children's evening media use on circadian phase, sleep, and executive functioning

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10906905

This study looks at how using tablets and other screens in the evening affects kids' sleep and thinking skills, and it aims to help parents find ways to manage screen time for better sleep and school performance.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10906905 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of children's use of technology and digital media, particularly tablets, on their sleep patterns and cognitive functions. It focuses on how evening exposure to light from screens can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to issues like shorter sleep duration and poorer sleep quality. By examining these effects, the study aims to provide parents with practical guidance on managing their children's screen time to promote healthier sleep habits and better academic performance. The research employs controlled trials to systematically assess these relationships.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who frequently use technology and digital media in the evening.

Not a fit: Children who do not use technology or digital media in the evening may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help improve children's sleep quality and cognitive functioning by providing strategies to manage screen time effectively.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that excessive screen time can negatively impact sleep and cognitive functions, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.