Children easily upset by TV

Small children do not have to watch inappropriate programming to become uneasy, just having it on in the background is enough.

Parents who want their youngsters to have a good night's sleep should leave watching the news, films and other potentially disturbing programming until after their children are in bed, says Anja Riita Lahikainen, professor of social psychology in Tammerfors, Finland.

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Sleep is the silent link in learning

Evidence is mounting that children who don't get enough sleep are at risk of learning difficulties, obesity and other health problems.

Sleep disturbances affect the pre-frontal cortex, the part of the brain that regulates emotions and behaviour.

Evidence suggests that lack of sleep or impaired sleep quality is strongly linked to behavioural disorders in children, such as increased aggression and conduct problems.

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