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Therapeutic dilemma: how to treat severe chronic sleep concerns in youth with neurodevelopmental disorders

Jessica Youssef1, Megan Thomas2,3,4

  • 1Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

Paediatrics & Child Health
|July 28, 2026
PubMed

Insights

This case report shows that family-centered, non-pharmacological sleep interventions improve sleep in children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). These behavioral strategies lead to lasting improvements in daytime functioning and overall health.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Sleep Medicine
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Behavioral Health

Background:

  • Sleep problems are prevalent in children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs).
  • These sleep issues significantly impair daily functioning, behavior, physical health, and family well-being.
  • Clinicians face challenges in managing pediatric insomnia, with limited effective options beyond off-label medications or lengthy behavioral approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To illustrate the effectiveness of a family-centered, non-pharmacological sleep intervention for children with NDDs.
  • To demonstrate long-term improvements in sleep and daytime functioning through behavioral, environmental, and circadian adjustments.
  • To highlight the crucial role of healthy sleep in optimizing physical and mental health in complex pediatric cases.

Main Methods:

  • A case report detailing a family-centered, non-pharmacological sleep intervention.
  • Focus on behavioral, environmental, and circadian factors influencing sleep.
  • Assessment of improvements in sleep, daytime functioning, and reduction in medication needs.

Main Results:

  • The intervention effectively addressed sleep concerns in a complex pediatric case with NDDs.
  • Sustained, long-term improvements in sleep and daytime functioning were observed.
  • Resolution of symptoms led to a reduction in medications previously prescribed for behavioral and medical conditions.

Conclusions:

  • Family-centered, non-pharmacological sleep interventions are highly effective for children with NDDs.
  • Addressing behavioral, environmental, and circadian factors promotes lasting sleep improvements.
  • Optimizing sleep is fundamental for enhancing overall physical and mental health in this population.

Keywords:
Autism spectrum disorderBehavioural interventionMelatoninPaediatric insomniaSleep disturbance concernsSleep hygiene

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