New Study Warns Against Phones in Kids' Bedrooms at Night

Experts have long recommended that children keep phones and other mobile devices out of their bedrooms at night, but many parents struggle to enforce the rule. Now, two large national studies offer compelling new reasons to make the change. The studies drew on data from a long-term research project tracking the health and brain development of about 8,000 adolescents ages 12 to 14 across the United States.

What the Studies Found

The first study, published in the medical journal Acta Paediatrica, found that teens who use screens in their bedrooms at night are more likely to develop problematic or addictive screen habits within a year. On average, they also spend nearly an hour on screens between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.—hours that should be reserved for sleep.

The second study, published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, uncovered another concerning finding: children who scroll on their phones in bed are significantly more likely to experience online social harm, both as victims and as perpetrators. Dr. Jason Nagata, a professor of pediatrics at the University of California and lead author of both studies, explains that parental supervision is naturally lowest during nighttime hours, making teens more vulnerable. He also emphasizes that inadequate sleep can have a direct negative impact on adolescents' physical and mental health.

The researchers also found a link between screen use during family meals and a greater risk of online social harm, possibly because it reduces meaningful communication and daily connection between parents and children. In addition, children who eat while using screens are more likely to struggle with obesity, as distractions can lead to overeating even when they are not hungry.

How Families Can Reduce Screen Time

Experts recommend making both bedtime and family meals screen-free for everyone in the household. Rather than presenting the change as a punishment, they suggest framing it as an opportunity to strengthen family relationships and support healthier brain development. They also stress that lasting change begins with parents. When adults put their own phones away, children are far more likely to follow their example.