Sleep Problems among School-Aged Children and the Impact of Electronic Device Use Before Bedtime: A Cross-Sectional Study in Aleppo, Syria

Sleep is a fundamental component of children's physical and cognitive development.However, the growing prevalence of electronic device use before bedtime has raised concerns about its potential negative impact on children's sleep quality.This study investigates the relationship between bedtime screen exposure and sleep disturbances among school-aged children in Aleppo, Syria.Using a cross-sectional design, a structured questionnaire was distributed to 150 parents of children aged 6-14 years across public and private schools.The survey collected data on sleep patterns, electronic device usage before sleep, and related behaviors.The results revealed that over 58% of children had difficulty falling asleep, and more than 80% used electronic devices within one hour of bedtime, primarily mobile phones and tablets.Statistical analysis showed a significant correlation between longer screen time and poorer sleep quality, including increased sleep latency, shorter sleep duration, and frequent night awakenings.The findings highlight the urgent need for parental education and public health interventions to promote healthier digital habits and better sleep hygiene.The study contributes valuable data to an under-researched context and provides actionable recommendations for families, schools, and healthcare professionals in Syria.