When I have calls and consultations with parents of older children, we tend to discuss sleep training clocks. I’m always met with ‘Ah yes! We have one of those gro clocks!’. But when I ask what colour it is overnight, 9 times out of 10 the answer is ‘blue’.
Many “gro clocks” and sleep trainers use blue light — but here’s the problem:
Blue light suppresses melatonin, the hormone our children need to fall asleep and stay asleep. When melatonin is inhibited, settling can take longer, night wakings can increase and sleep can feel lighter and more disrupted.
This matters especially in the evening and overnight, when little brains are primed for darkness and calm.
A better choice:
🔴 Red or amber light — these wavelengths are far less disruptive to melatonin
🌙 Low brightness, warm tones only
🌙 Ideally no light at all during sleep, if your child is comfortable
Sleep clocks can still be helpful for routines and morning boundaries but the colour matters. Red, orange or warm amber signals rest. Blue signals daytime and alertness.
If you’re using a clock to support sleep, make sure it’s actually working with your child’s biology and not against it ❤️
#childsleep #toddlerclock #sleepenvironment #melatonin #gentlesleep #sleepconsultant #bedtimeroutine #sleepeducation #parentingtips #NightswithNat
