Sleep quality, functional skills, and communication in preschool-aged children with autism spectrum disorder

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental disorders
• Pediatric sleep medicine
• Child psychology

Background:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition affecting social interaction and communication.
• Sleep disturbances are frequently reported in children with ASD, but their impact on functional skills requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between sleep quality and functional skills (mobility, self-care, social function), communication, independence, and ASD severity in young children.
• To understand the clinical implications of sleep disturbances in the context of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Main Methods:

• The study included 58 children aged 3 to 5 years and 11 months diagnosed with ASD.
• Sleep quality was assessed using the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children.
• Functional abilities, independence, and ASD severity were evaluated using the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale.

Main Results:

• A significant proportion of children (68.9%) exhibited signs of sleep disorders.
• No correlation was found between sleep disorders and communication abilities.
• Sleep disorders were negatively correlated with functional performance and positively correlated with the severity of ASD.

Conclusions:

• Sleep disturbances are prevalent in young children with ASD and are associated with poorer functional skills and greater ASD severity.
• These findings highlight the importance of assessing and managing sleep problems in children with ASD to improve their overall functioning and quality of life.
• Interventions targeting sleep disturbances may positively impact the developmental trajectory and well-being of children with ASD and their families.