The Sensory and Sleep Connection (Schafer-Clay - Live Interactive Webinar)

Course overview

The American Academy of Pediatrics (2020) estimates 25-50% of all children and 40% of adolescents are affected by sleep problems. Since so many children suffer from sleep issues, it is essential for all healthcare providers to recognize that sleep problems in children: can mimic symptoms of ADHD; cause depression and anxiety; may be linked to depressed immune responses; and in recent studies show a link to increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity (Sleep Foundation, 2021). Adolescents who get an inadequate amount of sleep struggle more academically and have a higher incidence of mental health problems (Colrain & Baker, 2011). Daytime and evening activities also improve or interfere with sleep quality. Using active learning strategies, participants will be able to provide caregiver education and will learn evidence-based sleep routine and hygiene recommendations and strategies to support improved sleep-in pediatric clients. Promoting improved sleep-in pediatric clients improves family relationships and children's success engaging in other important daily occupations.