Sleep Disorders More Common in Children with Asperger Syndrome

A recent study conducted at the Center for Pediatric Sleep Disorders at the University La Sapienza in Rome, Italy has led researchers to believe that sleep disorders are more common among children with Asperger Syndrome as opposed to their typically-developing peers. Oliviero Bruni, MD authored the study which compared the sleep habits of eight children with Asperger Syndrome, 10 children with autism and a control group of 12 typically-developing children. Parents of children with Asperger Syndrome filled out a sleep questionnaire and the Pediatric Daytime Sleepiness Scale. The children were also assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist, the industry-standard Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC), and were observed during an overnight sleep study (polysomnogram).

The study determined that not only were children with Asperger Syndrome reluctant to go to sleep they had difficulty falling asleep, difficulty waking up, and a general feeling of sleepiness throughout the day. As a parent of a child with Asperger Syndrome I can attest to these findings. My son has a hard time transitioning into his sleep routine, a difficult time falling asleep, and often nods off throughout the day. He rarely looks rested but can't seem to increase his quality of sleep. It is important for all children, but especially children with Asperger Syndrome and other autism spectrum conditions, to have a consistent bedtime routine. This will allow everyone to wind down and have a relaxing evening which should, ideally, set the mood for a more restful night. It is imperative to avoid any excessively stimulating activity in the later evening hours including screen time (TV, movies, video games, computer time, etc) and any type of excessive physical activity. Some parents find that the use of aromatherapy and relaxing music helps their child calm down and prepare themselves for a restful night of sleep.