Bedtime Routine for Autism

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byAmy G Hartman, PhD

Age: < 18

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: University of Pittsburgh

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The goal of this pilot intervention study is to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a novel bedtime manipulation protocol called "The Power Down" for autistic youth, ages 6-10. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Is the Power Down feasible for caregivers to do each night? 2. Do the families find the Power Down an acceptable intervention to address their child's difficulties settling down to fall asleep?

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for autistic children aged 6-10 who have trouble settling down to sleep. It's designed to see if caregivers can use the 'Power Down' method every night and if families find it helpful.

Inclusion Criteria

My child is between 6 and 10 years old.

Parent-reported autism diagnosis for child

Parent-reported extended and problematic settling down delay

See 3 more

Exclusion Criteria

Participants will be excluded if they do not understand English or are unable to travel to University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Western Psychiatric Hospital

My child finds physical touch upsetting due to past trauma.

My child spends most nights at another home where the caregiver won't join this study.

Treatment Details

Interventions

Power Down (Behavioral Intervention)

Trial OverviewThe study tests a new bedtime routine called 'Power Down.' Researchers want to know if it's easy for parents to follow and whether they think it works well for their kids with sleep issues.

Participant Groups

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Power Down pilot armExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

All participants will engage in a 2-week pilot intervention trial with baseline and post-intervention testing.