Behavioural sleep disorders are common in children with neurodisability. Standard interventions require adaptations to facilitate effective delivery and child outcome. The aim of this study was to describe the process involved in the development of a tailored behavioural sleep intervention for the management of sleep disorders in children with neurodisability.
This paper describes a pilot study and methodological framework for a tailored behavioural sleep intervention for children with neurodisability who experience non-respiratory sleep disorders. Throughout the development process, a collaborative research approach was implemented, engaging family and child consumers, medical and allied health stakeholders. The consultations provided critical insights that enriched the intervention and delivered tailored strategies. The resulting intervention design was a two-session program: Sleep Foundations and Sleep Disorders and Strategies. The pilot data (n=8 families) identified strong satisfaction, and short-term outcome data (n=3) showed improved sleep quality and continuity.
Use of a collaborative consumer focused methodology led to development of a tailored behavioural sleep intervention that is feasible and acceptable to families and children. Pilot data suggests potential for clinical use. Further efficacy trials are required to establish if the tailored intervention can optimise outcomes in children with neurodisability when compared to traditional interventions designed for typically developing children.