Regular Bedtimes May Help Kids Behave

Children with regular bedtimes are likely to be better behaved, too, a new study suggests. The research was part of a large study of 10,000 children in the United Kingdom. Researchers asked parents questions about their children’s bedtimes when they were ages 3, 5 and 7. Both parents and teachers were asked about the kids’ behavior. Both gave lower ratings for behavior to children who did not have regular bedtimes. The longer the varied bedtimes continued, the greater the behavior problems. But behavior improved for kids who started having regular bedtimes. The study author said not having a regular bedtime may interfere with the body’s circadian rhythms. This produces a state similar to jet lag. It may also affect maturing of the brain. Another expert interviewed by HealthDay News said that lack of routine produces anxiety in small children. This can lead to behavior problems.