Researchers from Monash University have found that children who are more active during the day take less time to fall asleep at night and sleep more soundly.

The study, based on sleeping patterns of over 500 children, found that the time it takes children to fall asleep is extended by three minutes for every hour that they are inactive.

Besides, active children also sleep longer than their more sedentary counterparts.

Watching TV had the same effect as reading. Both physically inactive tasks resulted in children taking longer to nod off.

`As short sleep duration is associated with obesity and lower cognitive performance, community emphasis on the importance of promoting healthy sleep in children is vitally important,` the researchers wrote.

`This study emphasizes the importance of physical activity for children, not only for fitness, cardiovascular health and weight control, but also for sleep,` they added.

Source: IANS