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

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 populationMethod: This integrative review aimed to characterize studies dur-ing the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2022) addressing the preva-lence 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 suit-able for this review.Results: Most studies reported worsening sleep disturbances dur-ing COVID-19 restrictions. All studies were conducted when clin-ics were closed; only two studies addressed treatment options such as music therapy and sleep hygiene education and found improve-ment 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 J Pediatr Health Care. (2023) 37, 153-166