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The Power Down Pilot Study: A Novel Bedtime Manipulation Protocol
Sponsor: University of Pittsburgh
Summary
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?
Official title: Powering Down: A Pilot Study of a Bedtime Manipulation to Support Sleep for Autistic Children
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
6 Years - 10 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
10
Start Date
2025-07-05
Completion Date
2026-12
Last Updated
2025-08-12
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Power Down bedtime manipulation
The Power Down is a bedtime manipulation protocol targeting elevated arousal level at bedtime due to a hypothesized effect of sensory over-responsivity (a common experience for autistic children). The Power Down incorporates sensory-based tools (gentle tactile pressure and auditory cues) to support nervous system regulation prior to attempting sleep onset. Participants (caregivers and their child) will be educated in the Power Down protocol and data collection methods for the 2 week intervention trial. Caregivers will lead a nightly gentle massage with guided relaxation script just prior to the child trying to fall asleep. The child will also wear a watch-like activity monitor (ActiGraph GT9x) for the 2 week period throughout the day and night to measure changes in sleep and activity patterns. Caregivers will complete daily diary questions in the morning and evening reporting their child's emotions and sleep timing.
Locations (1)
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States