How do I help my child with sleep issues?

While studies show that up to 50% of children will experience a sleep problem, the percentages are higher in kids with disabilities: as high as 80% for kids with autism, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and ADHD. Developmental disabilities can affect the body and brain physically, and behavior and sensory issues can contribute to poor sleep as well.

Seeing a sleep specialist in addition to your child's physician can help identify the contributing factors into your child's sleep issues and what interventions to try. Treatment may include a sleep log, behavioral intervention, sensory support, better sleep hygiene, and medication in some cases.

See our full articles Sleep Issues in Children with Disabilities and Interventions to Help Children Who Have Trouble Sleeping.