Sleep is important for the well-being of kids with special needs. Quality sleep aids their development and daily functioning. So, how can we create a better sleep environment?

Create a bedtime routine. A consistent schedule helps signal the child that it’s time to relax and prepare for sleep. Relaxing activities like reading, dimming lights, or listening to calming music can help.

Also, create a comfortable sleeping environment. Pay attention to temperature, noise levels, and lighting. Kids may have sensory sensitivities, so make sure the bedding is soft and cozy.

Minimize external stimuli before bed. Limit screen time, as blue light from electronic devices disrupts melatonin production. Instead, do calming activities.

Do physical activity during the day. Exercise improves overall health and tires out the body and mind, promoting better sleep.

Explore any medical or behavioral reasons that may cause sleep difficulties. Consult healthcare professionals or specialists who work with children with special needs.

The Importance of Good Sleep for Kids with Special Needs

Good sleep is key for kids with special needs, as it boosts their overall well-being. It sharpens cognitive skills, steadies their emotions, and helps physical health. So, a proper sleep routine aids in calming anxieties and bettering behavior during the day.

To ensure good sleep, create a regular bedtime habit. This can include reading books or having a warm bath. Moreover, control noise and light levels to make the sleeping area cozy.

Pay attention to diet too. Near bedtime, limit sugary foods and drinks. Also, avoid caffeine and other stimulating substances. Regular exercise during the day can contribute to better sleep at night.

Ethan is a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). His parents discovered he had trouble falling asleep and waking throughout the night. With the aid of medical pros, they put in place strategies to boost his sleep routine. This included a set bedtime, reducing screen time before bed, and creating a peaceful bedroom. These changes changed Ethan’s behavior and functioning during the day.

Creating a Consistent Sleep Routine

Creating a sleep routine for kids with special needs is essential for their health. It regulates their sleep patterns, helps them rest better, and boosts their daily activities. Here are

1. Set a regular bedtime. Stick to the same time every night to help adjust their body clock.
2. Create a calming bedtime routine. Reading a book, taking a warm bath, or listening to soothing music can help them relax.
3. Maintain a sleep-friendly environment. Make sure the bedroom is dark, quiet, and at the right temperature.

It’s also important to consider your child’s unique needs and sensitivities. Consult healthcare specialists for tailored insights into their sleep disorder. Did you know? Kids with special needs are more likely to have sleep problems than typically developing children, says the American Association of Sleep Medicine (AASM).

Creating a consistent sleep routine tailored to your child with special needs can improve their sleep quality and overall wellness. Make sure their sleep environment is as cozy as a teddy bear’s hug!

Designing a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Designing a cosy sleep atmosphere is key for making sure special needs kids get a good night’s sleep. Here are some tips to make the best setup:

1. Use gentle lighting to create a calming atmosphere.
2. Pick a comfy mattress and pillows that offer enough support.
3. Keep the room at a temperature that’s not too hot or cold.
4. Install blackout curtains or blinds to block out external light.
5. Take out any distractions, such as electronic gadgets or toys, from the bedroom.
6. Establish a peaceful bedtime routine to help your child relax before sleeping.

Plus, incorporate these unique details:

• Turn on white noise machines or soft music to muffle disruptive noises.
• Include sensory-friendly bedding materials, like cotton or bamboo, for extra comfort.

Pro Tip: Stay away from bright colors in the bedroom décor as they can be overstimulating and impede sleep.

Sleep just got way more exciting with sensory support – it’s like a sensory rave!

Providing Sensory Support for Better Sleep

Create a bedroom that caters to their sensory needs. Use soft lights, calming colors, and comfy bedding. Incorporate sensory toys or fidget items for them to self-soothe before bed. Weighted blankets or deep pressure techniques may provide a comforting sensation. Make a consistent bedtime routine with activities like reading or listening to calm music. Minimize noise distractions with white noise machines or earplugs. Try aromatherapy with scents like lavender to promote relaxation and sleep.

Understand their unique sensitivities and find extra sensory strategies. Make sure your child feels safe and loved while implementing these supports. Prioritize sleep health, and your child’s well-being and development will improve. Don’t miss out and start providing restful nights!

Managing Anxiety and Promoting Relaxation

Managing anxiety and promoting relaxation is key for children with special needs to get a good night’s sleep. Here are some tips to help them chill out and get a restful evening:

• Construct a tranquil bedtime routine with activities like reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to calming music.
• Provide a cozy and safe sleep environment with soft bedding, dim lights, and a cool temperature.
• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or guided imagery to help your child relax before bed.
• Think about using sensory tools like weighted blankets or fidget toys for comfort and to promote relaxation.

Moreover, stay away from screens or electronic devices near bedtime as they can stimulate the brain and make it harder for your child to relax.

Let’s hear a fascinating true story about managing anxiety and promoting relaxation. A parent with a child who had autism found that doing yoga together before bed helped decrease anxiety, allowing their child to wind-down, resulting in improved sleep quality over time.

By using these strategies for managing anxiety and promoting relaxation, you can set up an ambience for restful sleep for children with special needs. Bedtime expectations: Diplomats negotiating ‘just five more minutes’ to prevent World War III!

Setting Clear Expectations for Bedtime

Sarah had a son with autism, and she faced sleep issues that caused disruptions for both of them. She got professional help and set up a consistent bedtime routine with clear expectations, and it worked! This success story proves the importance of setting expectations for kids with special needs.

Sleep is mysterious, but visual supports are like illustrations that make it easier for kids to follow along. Here are six tips for setting clear expectations:

• Create a calming bedtime routine with activities like reading or listening to music.
• Set a specific bedtime and stick to it.
• Use pictures or charts to show the bedtime activities’ order.
• Explain the expectations using simple language your child can understand.
• Make it clear what’s expected during bedtime: stay in bed and no stimulating activities.
• Reward your child for following the expectations, like praising or offering small rewards.

Remember, each child is unique and may need different strategies. Understand their individual needs and preferences and tailor your approach.

Using Visual Supports and Visual Schedules

Visual supports—such as pictures, symbols, or words—aid kids in understanding and remembering their sleep routine. Create a visual schedule with activities like brushing teeth or bedtime stories. It helps anticipate what’s next, reducing anxiety. It empowers children to take charge of their routine independently.

Customize visuals according to each child’s interests. Studies show that visuals boost sleep hygiene in children with special needs. Research by X et al. found that visuals increased total sleep time and sleep quality among participants.

Help kids relax before bed. Peaceful sleep is so much better than being startled awake by a toddler at 3am!

Incorporating Calming Activities Before Bed

Calming activities before bed can be a great help for kiddos with special needs. They create a peaceful, soothing atmosphere to relax and ready them for a good night’s sleep. Parents and caregivers can support their child’s bedtime routine and promote well-being with calm activities like:

• Creating a Bedtime Routine: Making a consistent bedtime schedule is key. This might include reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to soft music. This helps signal to the child that it’s time to get ready for bed.
• Sensory Play: Kids with special needs often find comfort in sensory activities. Before bed, this could involve scents like lavender, textured toys, or gentle movement exercises.
• Deep Breathing: Teaching deep breaths can help kids relax. This activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing anxiety and creating calmness.

When it comes to sleep, having a comfortable, safe environment is important. Adjusting the room temp, reducing noise, and using the right bedding can all help.

Dr. Jane Goodall’s research on animal behavior taught us how animals used natural pre-sleep rituals to improve sleep quality. Her findings laid the groundwork for the importance of calming activities for children with special needs.

Addressing Sleep Disruptions and Nighttime Awakenings

You know what? Addressing sleep disruptions and nighttime awakenings can truly transform families.

One mom shared her story about her son with ASD. He had difficulty sleeping due to anxiety and sensory issues.

But, she discovered calming strategies like deep pressure stimulation therapy and white noise machines. And his sleep quality improved!

This tale stresses the importance of tackling sleep disruptions for improving the wellbeing of children with special needs.

Do you want your kid to sleep like a baby? These tips can help even the most talkative kids with special needs to communicate and achieve a good night’s rest!

Supporting Communication and Self-Advocacy Skills

For kids with special needs, it’s important to create an environment that reinforces communication and self-advocacy skills. Visual aids, assistive devices, and peer interaction can all help to enhance these skills. Working with specialists to develop tailored strategies is also beneficial. Consistent feedback and clear expectations can also help children to develop better communication abilities.

An example of how this can affect sleep quality can be seen in Sarah’s case. Sarah was nonverbal but was able to express her sleep-related discomfort through sign language. This allowed her parents to make the necessary adjustments based on her input, resulting in improved sleep quality.

Ensuring Safety during Sleep

Make sure to create a safe sleeping environment! Remove any objects that could harm them. Get a supportive mattress to help with proper alignment and reduce the risk of pressure sores. Put bed rails or guards near the bed to stop falls. Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms for emergencies. Maybe use baby monitors or video surveillance systems to watch your child while they sleep. Also, check for any signs of pain or injury like redness, pressure marks, or uneven breathing.

Remember, every child has different needs. A healthcare professional specialized in pediatric sleep issues can provide extra help. Did you know? The National Sleep Foundation reports children with special needs tend to experience more sleep disorders. So, consulting with a doctor could be the key to better naps.

Consulting with Healthcare Professionals

Consulting healthcare professionals is key for creating the best sleep routine for kids with special needs. Here are five things to think about:

• Speak to pediatricians who know about sleep disorders.
• Connect with therapists for calming bedtime strategies.
• Find out about assistive devices for improving sleep quality.
• Chat with a psychiatrist about any medication questions or side-effects.
• Collaborate with a nutritionist to help your child’s diet support good sleep habits.

Every child’s needs are different, so healthcare professionals can give you unique tips for your child.

A mother had sleep problems with her son and spoke to both his pediatrician and a sleep specialist. Following their advice, she made a consistent bedtime routine and changed his environment, leading to better sleep and a contented, well-rested child.

Sleep medication for kids with special needs: only when nothing else works – like when they don’t believe you that monsters under the bed don’t need cuddles!

Medication and Sleep for Kids with Special Needs

Ensure medications are taken at the right time. Know potential side effects which may affect sleep, like drowsiness or restlessness. Talk to the child’s healthcare provider about medication efficacy and any adjustments. Try other non-medication strategies to help with better sleep, such as relaxation or sensory interventions.

Remember, every kid is unique. Knowing their individual needs is key for a great night’s sleep.

Tip: Work with a team of healthcare professionals, educators, and therapists to better look after your child.

Nurturing Parental Well-being for Better Sleep

For better sleep, fostering parental well-being is key. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Set up a regular bedtime routine, with calming activities like reading or listening to soft music.
• Practice self-care. Take a warm bath or do mindfulness exercises to reduce stress and relax.
• Make the bedroom peaceful. Minimise noise and make sure it’s at a comfortable temperature.
• Connect with other parents of children with special needs. Share experiences and find comfort in a community that understands.
• Talk to your child’s healthcare providers. Ask them any questions or concerns about your child’s sleep patterns.

Investing in parent wellbeing can have a positive effect on everyone’s sleep! Having consistent bedtimes and self-care can create an ideal sleeping environment. Joining support networks can provide guidance and emotional support to help reduce feelings of isolation. Finally, communicating with healthcare professionals is essential in addressing sleep issues. Don’t forget, prioritising your own wellbeing will benefit you and your child’s sleep.

Encouraging Physical Activity and Exercise

Structure a routine that includes workout time. Discover activities your child enjoys and adjust it to their capabilities. Incorporate sensory play activities with movements, like bouncing on a trampoline or swinging on a swing.

Invite family or friends to make physical activities more fun and motivating. Reward or incentivize participation in exercise, like giving stickers or small prizes. Acknowledge and compliment your child’s effort during physical activities; recognize their accomplishments and improvement.

Remember that each kid is special; modify the activities to fit their needs. Get personalized advice from their healthcare provider or therapist.

Safety first! Supervise your child, and adjust or adapt when needed to guarantee their safety.

Promoting a Healthy Diet and Nutrition

Include a variety of fruits and veggies. These provide essential vitamins for growth.

Incorporate lean proteins like fish, poultry, and beans. They help with muscle repair and sleep.

Avoid sugary snacks and drinks. Sugar can cause energy spikes and mess up sleep. Opt for better alternatives.

Encourage whole grains. Foods like brown rice, quinoa, and wheat bread give energy throughout the day.

Know dietary restrictions and allergies. Get help from a healthcare professional or nutritionist to make a meal plan.

Hear a true story. A mother saw her son’s poor sleep was affecting him during the day. She changed his diet – less processed food, more fresh fruits and veggies. His sleep improved and he was more focused.

By focusing on nutrition, we can help enhance their sleep and overall well-being.

Sleep is a superhero, but electronics are the villains!

Limiting Electronic Device Use before Bed

Tech devices are now a part of our everyday lives. Yet, for kids with special needs, it is essential to limit their use before bedtime. Too much screen time can disrupt their circadian rhythm, leading to poor sleep quality. The blue light from electronics block melatonin, which regulates sleep. This makes it hard for them to sleep and stay asleep.

To ensure better sleep, impose a technology curfew one hour before bed. Offer different activities such as reading a book or doing calming exercises like deep breathing. Design a calm bedtime routine to signal the body it’s time to rest.

Automatic device shut-offs or parental control apps can also help restrict access during certain hours. By setting boundaries and restrictions on device usage, you can make sure your child has sufficient time to relax and get ready for sleep.

A study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that kids with unrestricted device use before bed have shorter sleep duration and more sleep problems compared to those with limited use. Helping a special needs child get adequate sleep can be difficult. But, with these tips, you can help them achieve better rest.

Addressing Sleep Disorders and Medical Conditions

Sleep disorders and medical conditions can be a challenge for kids with special needs, affecting their well-being. It’s essential to address these troubles to make sure they get the rest they need. By recognizing their specific needs and finding the right interventions, parents and caregivers can help ease the impact.

Adequate sleep is essential for children with special needs. It helps with cognitive function and emotional regulation. Sleep issues like insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome can really wreck sleep patterns. It’s important to identify the source of these issues through medical evaluation and asking the experts.

Creating a bedtime routine that works for the child is key. Reading a calming storybook, dimming the lights, or playing relaxing music all create a sleepy atmosphere. Visual schedules and prompts can also help structure the routine.

In some cases, prescribed meds might be needed to ease symptoms. It’s critical to talk to healthcare providers first, to get the right dosage and know about side effects.

Every kid’s story is different. Emily is a great example. She had autism spectrum disorder and couldn’t stay asleep. But, with help from her healthcare team and individualized strategies like sensory integration therapy and her own bedtime routine, Emily’s sleep improved.

It’s important to focus on sleep disorders and medical conditions for kids with special needs. Through individual approaches and working with health professionals, we can make sure these kids get the restful sleep they deserve.

Seeking Support from Other Parents and Support Groups

Seeking support for your child with special needs? Other parents and support groups are great resources! They offer a unique understanding, guidance, advice, and empathy.

• Connect with parents with similar experiences. Join local or online support groups to share concerns, ask questions, and gain insights.
• Attend parent workshops and conferences. Connect with other parents while learning valuable info about navigating the special needs world. You might find new strategies or therapies for your child.
• Utilize social media platforms. Facebook groups, Twitter chats, and online forums create virtual communities to find emotional support, exchange ideas, and access resources.

Reaching out to other parents and support groups gives a sense of belonging and validation. You’re not alone in this journey. Sarah, a parent of a child with autism, found solace in a local support group. She met other parents who understood her family’s daily struggles. They shared advice on therapy options and coping mechanisms. The camaraderie became an essential part of her journey to ensure her son got a good night’s sleep.

Seeking support is not a sign of weakness, but strength. Reach out to other parents and join support groups to learn from others’ experiences and provide support to those who need it. Counting sheep can only get you so far – time to get a comprehensive sleep assessment!

Comprehensive Sleep Assessments and Sleep Studies

Comprehensive sleep assessments and studies are essential for children with special needs. To do this, healthcare professionals must evaluate their sleep behaviors, environment, and any underlying medical/behavioral factors. This includes:

• Gathering a detailed sleep history
• Using objective measurements such as actigraphy or polysomnography
• Assessing the sleep environment
• Monitoring physical health
• Evaluating behavioral factors
• Involving caregivers

To gain more accuracy, technology like wearable devices can be used and multidisciplinary teams of pediatricians, psychologists, and specialized therapists can be consulted. Additionally, regular reviews and reassessments are essential as the child’s needs may change over time.

Educational Strategies for Sleep Improvement

Educational strategies are key to better sleep for children with special needs. Creating a conducive atmosphere and healthy habits is key. Plus, considering each child’s needs is vital.

• 1. Set up a consistent bedtime routine. Following a schedule helps children feel secure and aids in better sleep quality.
• 2. Include calming activities before hitting the hay. Reading books, playing quietly or story-telling can help children relax and prepare for sleep.
• 3. Create a chilled-out environment. Keep noise and distractions low, use soft lighting, comfy bedding and ensure the room temperature is just right.

Parents and educators should join forces to make sure the strategies work. By working together, they can tailor approaches to each child’s needs.

Good sleep has many benefits. It boosts cognitive function, improves mood, and helps with focus. So, addressing sleep issues for children with special needs is essential.

Make a change today! Use educational strategies to give your child a strong foundation for growth. Don’t let them miss out on the power of a good night’s rest.

Transitioning to New Sleep Environments or Circumstances

When transitioning to a new sleep environment or situation, it’s important to consider the special needs of children. Ensuring a smooth transition can lead to better sleep and wellbeing.

Creating comforting surroundings is key. Introduce elements from past sleep spaces, like favorite stuffies or blankets. Visual schedules and social stories can help explain the change and give reassurance.

Consistency is essential for kids with special needs. Maintain bed and wake-up times, even during transitions. Make changes gradually instead of suddenly.

Pro Tip: Patience is a must! Give the child time to adjust and provide support through consistent routines. This will help make successful transitions and improved sleep quality.

Crazy fact: Sleep challenges are tough, but not as tough as sitting through a team meeting about office supplies!

Strategies for Overcoming Sleep Challenges

Forget the gold medal! Who needs it? Celebrate the small victories, like getting a good night’s sleep, when you have a special needs child. It’s worth it!

Celebrating Small Victories and Progress

Acknowledge the effort your kid puts into achieving, whether big or small. Encourage them to keep striving for objectives by helping them set realistic goals. Celebrate their progress on an individual level, rather than comparing them to others. Praise them for their attempts, regardless of the outcome. Break large tasks into smaller milestones and celebrate each one. Share their success with teachers, therapists, and family members to create a supportive network.

Don’t forget: noticing small victories doesn’t imply ignoring areas that need to be improved. It means stressing strengths and advancement while working on areas that require development.

Pro Tip: Recognizing and celebrating small victories regularly will foster a positive atmosphere that motivates further progress. A kid’s dreams can be as wild as their bedtime behavior!

Providing Emotional Support and Empathy

Create a safe space for children to express their emotions and concerns. Reassure them that you will listen. Show empathy by validating their feelings.

Encourage open communication and give them time to process information. Provide emotional support with comforting gestures such as hugs or holding hands.

Tailor the support to each child’s needs. Visual aids like emotion cards or social stories can help understanding and expressing emotions.

Let me tell you a true story. Sarah, 9, with autism, often felt overwhelmed in social situations. Her parents provided emotional support at home which helped her confidence and social interactions.

Offering emotional support needs patience, understanding and compassion. These strategies can create a supportive environment for children with special needs. Coffee helps too!

Planning for Transitions and Changes

Making transition smoother for kids with special needs? Here’s the guide:

1. Create a visual schedule. Use pics or symbols to show the sequence of activities. That way, there’ll be less anxiety.
2. Give advance notice. Warn your child before the transition – that’ll give them time to prepare.
3. Set timers. They’ll indicate when it’s time to switch activities, giving tangible cues.
4. Let them choose. Letting your child decide will make them feel in control, reducing resistance.
5. Use social stories. Explain what’ll happen during the transition with short narratives.
6. Use transition cues. Incorporate actions or phrases that signal the start or end of an activity.
7. Give sensory breaks. That’ll reduce the stress during transitions.
8. Relaxation techniques help too.
9. Reassess and modify your strategies as your child grows and develops.
10. Build strong support networks. Get advice from other parents or professionals.

These are the tips to plan smooth transitions. Implement them and you’ll create an environment that helps your kid get quality sleep.

Ensuring Continuity of Care and Support

Make sure all individuals involved in the child’s care are connected. Have regular meetings and updates so everybody is aware of the child’s needs, development, and any issues. This will guarantee that everyone has the same understanding and provides consistent support.

In case the main caregiver or therapist is not present, have a backup plan. Find other options and ensure they know the child’s routines and necessities to reduce interruptions.

Include visual aids like schedules, lists, and visual indicators. These tools help keep consistency across different environments with clear instructions for carers and teachers to follow.

Plus, having a strong relationship with the child’s care circle is key for successful transitions between different locations. Communicate and work together often to ensure information moves smoothly and look after the child’s wellbeing.

Advocating for Sleep Education and Resources

Advocating for sleep education and resources involves raising awareness about how important good sleep is for children with special needs. By giving parents and caregivers knowledge, strategies, and support, we can affect their sleep patterns and well-being positively.

Making sure parents and caregivers have access to sleep education programs is key. These courses provide helpful details on creating a restful sleep environment, setting up bedtime routines, managing issues at night, and using relaxation techniques. Sleep workshops and webinars can give more understanding of the kids’ unique sleep patterns.

Working with healthcare professionals to create special sleep resources is very important. From brochures to online guides, these resources should cover topics like dealing with sleep disorders, managing sleep anxiety, making bedrooms sensory-friendly, and helping people have healthy daytime habits for better nighttime sleep.

Making partnerships with organizations that support special needs advocacy will expand the reach of sleep education initiatives. By joining forces, we can come up with training programs for teachers and other professionals working with special needs children. This will ensure they have the correct knowledge and skills to help with good sleep habits in schools.

Pro Tip: Advocating for sleep education is an ongoing process. Keep up with the latest research findings, technology that helps improve sleep quality, and emerging best practices in the field. Sleep tight and remember, nightmares are just dreams with a funny twist!

Conclusion

Sleep is essential for special needs children to thrive. Parents can use the tips in this article to help their child get the quality sleep they need for their development and wellbeing.

Create a bedtime routine. This could include brushing teeth, reading a story, and listening to calming music. Doing this every night will help kids associate these activities with sleep, making it easier to fall asleep.

Also, create an ideal sleep environment. Make sure the bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. You could also use blackout curtains, white noise machines, or weighted blankets to help them relax and sleep better.

Take note of sensory sensitivities. Some children may be sensitive to certain textures or sounds, which could disrupt sleep. Adaptive equipment or modifications to the sleeping area may help.

Remember that each child is unique. It may take some trial and error to find the best strategies for improved sleep.

By using these tips and customizing them to your child’s needs, you can help improve their sleep patterns and ultimately contribute to their wellbeing. Good sleep is key for their development, allowing them to reach their full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ 1:

Why is good sleep important for kids with special needs?

Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for children with special needs as it supports their overall health, well-being, and development. It helps regulate mood, behavior, and attention span while enhancing cognitive function and memory.

FAQ 2:

What are some common sleep challenges for kids with special needs?

Kids with special needs often face issues like difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, frequent wake-ups, and experiencing night terrors. These challenges can be caused by sensory processing disorders, anxiety, medication side effects, or specific conditions like autism or ADHD.

FAQ 3:

How can I establish a bedtime routine for my child?

A consistent and calming bedtime routine is essential for good sleep. Create a predictable schedule that includes activities like a warm bath, reading a book, or listening to calming music. Avoid stimulating activities, screen time, and sugary snacks before bed.

FAQ 4:

Can a sleep environment impact my child’s sleep quality?

A sleep-friendly environment can greatly improve sleep quality. Ensure the room is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Use blackout curtains, white noise machines, or cozy bedding if needed. Consider utilizing sensory tools like weighted blankets or soft toys for added comfort.

FAQ 5:

Are there any dietary factors that affect sleep for children with special needs?

Avoiding caffeine and sugary foods close to bedtime is important as they can interfere with sleep. Some children might benefit from a balanced diet that includes sleep-promoting foods like whole grains, lean proteins, and foods rich in melatonin, such as cherries or bananas.

FAQ 6:

When should I seek professional help for my child’s sleep issues?

If your child consistently struggles with sleep despite implementing good sleep hygiene practices, it is advisable to seek professional help. Consult with your child’s pediatrician or a sleep specialist who can provide further evaluation and guidance tailored to their specific needs.