Early Intervention Matters
The Early Intervention Matters Podcast is a podcast that informs, inspires and equips parents and professionals who live and work with children with neurodevelopmental difficulties and disabilities like autism, adhd, tic-disorders, and learning difficulties.
Early Intervention Matters
Strategies for Managing Sleep Difficulties - With Keith Dinauto, Occupational Therapist
In this episode, Inyang and Keith discuss the critical role of sleep in children's development, particularly for those with neurodiverse conditions.
They explore normal sleep patterns, common sleep difficulties, and the distinction between medical and behavioral sleep issues. The conversation focuses on the importance of promoting healthy sleep habits and routines, as well as the impact of sleep on behavior.
Keith shares practical strategies for improving sleep and highlights the significance of consistency in implementing these strategies. The episode concludes with advice for parents on managing sleep issues and the importance of seeking professional help when necessary.
Takeaways
- Sleep is foundational for growth and brain development.
- Normal sleep patterns vary by age and include both quality and quantity.
- Parents often overlook sleep as a problem when seeking help for behavioral issues.
- Sleep difficulties can be medical or behavioral in nature.
- A good bedtime routine is essential for promoting healthy sleep.
- Consistency in sleep strategies is key to success.
- Poor sleep can lead to increased behavioral issues in children.
- Behavioral strategies should be the first line of management for sleep problems.
- Parents serve as models for their children's behavior and emotional regulation.
- Starting healthy sleep routines early can lead to better outcomes.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity and Sleep Challenges
02:39 Understanding Sleep Patterns in Children
04:16 The Importance of Sleep Quality
05:43 Promoting Healthy Sleep Patterns
07:49 Identifying Sleep Difficulties in Children
09:14 Medical vs. Behavioral Sleep Issues
11:42 Consequences of Poor Sleep Quality
14:14 Creating Child-Friendly Routines
20:25 Consistency in Sleep Strategies
21:20 Behavior Patterns in Neurodiverse Children
22:48 The Impact of Sleep on Behavior
25:39 The Interconnection of Sleep and Neurodiversity
29:19 Sensory Strategies for Better Sleep
31:31 Creating a Calming Environment for Sleep
33:39 Understanding Sensory Systems and Sleep
36:16 Strategies for Managing Sleep Difficulties
40:23 The Role of Activities in Sleep Patterns
43:13 Consultation Approaches for Sleep Issues
46:42 The Importance of Circadian Rhythm
49:19 Behavioral Strategies vs. Medication for Sleep
50:13 Final Thoughts on Improving Sleep for Children
58:01 Outro Early Intervention Matters.mp3
Resources
General Information for Parents
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