THERE’S a quiet revolution happening among children previously addicted to their electronic devices.
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They are switching off at least 30 minutes before bed, sleeping better and waking with more energy and in better moods.
It’s a simple solution called NED b4 bed (no electronic devices before bed) initiated by Warrnambool Primary School, which claims to have more than half its enrolment participating in less than a month.
Principal Peter Auchettl believes it could be a first for Victoria and maybe Australia.
“I haven’t heard of it happening anywhere else,” he told The Standard yesterday.
“The feedback from children and parents has been amazing.
“Now we are looking at ratcheting it up to have NED at meal times. It’s all about pupils taking the initiative themselves rather than have it imposed by parents.”
He suggests the proliferation of electronic devices throughout society is affecting health and the art of face-to-face conversation.
Mr Auchettl said his attention was drawn by recent publication of research showing the effect of electronic devices and ambient light.
“Brainwaves are stirred up by these devices,” he said.
“I’m sure a lot of parents don’t understand why their kids aren’t getting a full night’s sleep and are grumpy and lethargic the next day.”
Judging by enthusiastic feedback from grade four pupils yesterday the trial is popular.
They all have iPads for school work which they take home.
The children said they were telling friends and relatives in other schools about the benefits of switching off at least 30 minutes before going to bed.
One boy said he used to watch television a lot and have night “terrors”, but is now sleeping peacefully.
Others said they slept longer and woke up fresher.