Power Down - Parents of autistic children ages 6-13

STUDY BASICS

Does your child struggle at night with falling asleep? Your child may be eligible for a research study looking to test a short, bedtime intervention called the “Power Down” for autistic children (ages 6-13) who have sensory sensitivities and struggle to fall asleep at night. This intervention hopes to help kids settle down quicker by using sensory-based strategies. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

This study is interested in exploring a new way to help autistic children get better sleep. Research notes that autistic children often have difficulties with sleep, specifically settling down to fall asleep. This study blends together common sleep practices of creating a comfortable sleeping environment and the effects of relaxation and gentle massage to help autistic children settle down quicker. They are interested in participant feedback on this new intervention and will be asking participant's opinions about how to improve the intervention to better support children’s sleep.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Families with a child who:

• Has an autism diagnosis
• Is between 6 to 13 years of age
• Has sensory sensitivities
• Has trouble falling asleep at night

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

This research study involves two lab visits at Bridgeside Point (south Oakland) and three weeks of home-based data collection. During this time, the caregiver and child will be asked to wear an activity monitor on their wrists and you, the caregiver, will be asked to complete a short (3 mins) morning and evening diary with questions about you and your child's sleep, rise times, and mood. Additionally, during the last two weeks, we will ask you, the caregiver, to complete a short (5 mins) progressive relaxation and gentle pressure massage with your child prior to saying goodnight.