A SLEEP INTERVENTION FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
Sarah Schoen, PhD, OTR, Assistant Research Director, SPD Foundation
Summary: The aim of this study was to examine the immediate, short-term effects of the Dreampad on the sleep behaviors of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In addition, this study examined the effects of changes in sleep patterns on parent and family measures of stress and quality of life.
“Changes were most notable in emotional, social and school functioning. All of the parents reported a positive reaction to using the Dreampad and were interested in continuing its use. Many said their children were going to bed/sleep more quickly, sleeping more soundly, waking up more easily and generally seemed more relaxed.”
Research published in The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy.
How Do I Use the Dreampad?
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Download
Download Dreampad Sleep App to smart device
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Connect
Connect smart device to Dreampad
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Select Song
Select song, adjust volume in Dreampad app
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Relax
Place head on pillow and relax
The Music App
The Dreampad team has been making music for therapeutic purposes for over a decade. We create all Dreampad music in house (except the Classical piece), and we use frequencies, tempo and structure which are proven to be the most conducive to relaxation and sleep. We integrate nature sounds as well, adding natural rhythm and a textural quality to the pieces.
The Dreampad music app offers a great selection for relaxation and sleeping, as well as a convenient interface for controlling the music. The app includes a Timer for setting playing time, an Alarm that wakes you gently from your dreams, a range of volume settings for listening on your back or your side, and some really helpful sleep tips to enhance the effectiveness of the Dreampad.
Science & Research
Clinical data suggests that the calming effect of the Dreampad is a result of its vibrational music stimulating the vagus nerve, which in turn activates the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). Our PNS helps us regulate stress – if we’re in a state of hyper-arousal or elevated stress, the PNS is the part of our nervous system which brings us down to a calmer place where we can relax.
The Dreampad has been tested with various populations, including adults, children, war veterans with PTSD, children with autism and sensory processing difficulties. A study by Columbia University Medical Center showed the Dreampad improves quality of sleep by reducing awakenings during the night. A pilot study conducted with war veterans showed 100% success rate in helping reduce nightmares and improve sleep. More studies are being developed to determine its effect on the autonomic nervous system as well as to identify specific groups who might benefit from its calming influence.
30-day Money Back Guarantee
We think you’ll love the Dreampad, but we want you to sleep on it. If you are not happy, return it within 30-days and we’ll refund you the purchase price.
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