Sleep problems are common in children with NDD’s, including sleep latency, overnight awakenings, and early-morning awakenings.
In partnership with youth with neurodevelopmental disorders, their caregivers, and pediatric physicians (general and subspecialists), we have created Nova Sleepcare to help improve sleep for these children.
Nova Sleepcare is designed to be delivered by a physician during a medical appointment in which a young person is identified to experience sleep problems, in particular when they are contributing to behaviours of concern (e.g., aggression, self-injury). Nova Sleepcare has been designed to be quick to deliver, individualizable to the unique patient in front of you, and offers a patient and family help right away – no referrals or long waits for services needed. The youth can also get involved if they are able, which we know improves treatment adherence.
Nova Sleepcare is derived from evidence-based, clinical practice guidelines for pediatric behavioural insomnia. This includes sleep physiology education, sleep hygiene best practices (e.g., daytime routines, regular sleep/wake times, consistent bedtime routine, balanced screen time, physical exercise), sleep ecology (e.g., optimal sleep environment), elements of cognitive behavioural therapy (e.g., stimulus control, relaxation techniques), and melatonin dosing regimens.