Sleep in Children With Neurodevelopmental Disabilities During COVID-19: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Introduction: Sleep issues occur at higher rates in children with neurodevelopmental disorders than in the typical population. Little is known about the impact of COVID-19 on sleep issues in this population METHOD: This integrative review aimed to characterize studies during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2022) addressing the prevalence and management of sleep issues in children and youth with neurodevelopmental disorders.Comprehensive database searches were used to identify articles, and 31 studies were considered suitable for this review.

Results: Most studies reported worsening sleep disturbances during COVID-19 restrictions. All studies were conducted when clinics were closed; only two studies addressed treatment options such as music therapy and sleep hygiene education and found improvement in sleep issues.

Discussion: Future research needs to concentrate on developing interventions to assist families remotely and empower families with a toolkit of preparedness in times of crisis.

Keywords: COVID-19; Neurodevelopmental disability; attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; autism spectrum disorders; sleep quality.