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Sensory Processing and Sleep in Typically Developing Infants and Toddlers

Mark Vasak1, James Williamson2, Jennifer Garden3

  • 1Mark Vasak, MOT, is Occupational Therapy Graduate, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

The American Journal of Occupational Therapy : Official Publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association
|June 27, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Sensory processing patterns are linked to sleep issues in young children. Increased sensory seeking correlated with shorter naps, while heightened sensitivity was associated with longer sleep onset times.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Pediatric Occupational Therapy

Background:

  • Sleep problems are common in infants and toddlers.
  • Sensory processing differences may influence sleep behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between sensory processing patterns and sleep problems.
  • To examine this relationship in typically developing young children.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective chart review of 177 infants and toddlers.
  • Utilized data from the Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile and Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire.
  • Descriptive and correlational analyses were performed.

Main Results:

  • Over half of participants (55%) showed increased sensory processing in at least one area.
  • Increased sensory seeking was linked to shorter daytime sleep duration (r=-.24, p=.002).
  • Increased sensory sensitivity correlated with longer time to settle for sleep (r=.27, p<.001).

Conclusions:

  • This study establishes a link between sensory processing patterns and sleep problems in typically developing young children.
  • Findings support the role of occupational therapy in managing pediatric sleep difficulties.
  • Highlights the importance of considering sensory profiles when addressing infant and toddler sleep issues.
Abstract

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