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Behavioral Sleep Interventions for Neurodivergent Youth: A Narrative Review
Amy G Hartman1, Angela Caldwell1, Heather Joseph2
1Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Pittsburgh, 100 Technology Dr, Suite 350, Pittsburgh, PA 15221 USA.
Current Sleep Medicine Reports
|June 11, 2026
Summary
Behavioral sleep interventions are increasingly effective for neurodivergent children, addressing unique challenges like sensory differences. These targeted approaches improve sleep health and daytime function in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, and Down syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Behavioral Interventions
Background:
- Childhood sleep health is crucial for development.
- Neurodivergent children face greater sleep challenges than their peers.
- Specific challenges include sensory processing, medication effects, and family support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review behavioral sleep interventions for neurodivergent children.
- To identify interventions published in the last 5 years.
- To examine the impact of these interventions on sleep health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of behavioral sleep interventions.
- Focus on interventions developed or adapted for neurodivergent children.
- Analysis of impact on sleep health and daytime functioning.
Main Results:
- Increased research in behavioral sleep interventions for neurodivergent children.
- Interventions incorporate neurodivergent-specific needs.
- Behavioral interventions show efficacy in improving sleep and daytime function.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral interventions are emerging as effective for neurodivergent children's sleep issues.
- Future research needs larger, diverse samples.
- Community engagement is key for successful implementation.
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