28/11/2023
Have you ever thought about the importance of natural light in relation to your children’s sleeping patterns?
Read more below…✨
Natural light plays a critical role in setting the rhythm of our internal clocks. The pineal gland in the brain produces Melatonin which regulates and controls our sleeping patterns. Think of natural light as a way to charge your body, as though you would charge up your phone! Light is made up of a number of wavelengths ranging from blue to red. We hear a lot about vitamin D and the importance of getting enough exposure to it, however, morning sunlight is incredibly important too as it is saturated in blue light (in simple terms!) this puts the breaks on melatonin production in our brains and increases cortisol production, this is what makes us feel more awake!
Whilst blue light from a screen/device is bad for you, natural blue light is really beneficial as it is balanced with other wavelengths. In the winter months, we know it can be tricky but the earlier you are able to get out and soak up some natural morning light, the better. Try to get your kids outside within the first hour or two of waking up. You don’t need to spend a lot of time outside to benefit from the natural light, 20-30 minutes in the morning and afternoon can be really beneficial!
By sunset there is no blue light and instead predominantly red, this is when the melatonin kicks back in and helps you feel tired to prepare for sleeping. This is why screen use before bed can have a negative impact on your child’s sleep cycle due to blue light exposure.
There are a number of products out there to help avoid blue light exposure in children at bedtime, such as red night lights, and lightbulbs (contact us for which we would recommend!)
Another handy trick is using blackout curtains, they are often a staple in homes with young children. However, they are only necessary when your child is actually sleeping. When your child is awake, open the curtains and let the light in!
