Abstract

Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is the name for a range of similar conditions that affect a person's social interaction, communication, interests and behaviour. In most cases many of the features of Autism can be recognised during early childhood. It is estimated that about 1 in every 160 children has an Autism Spectrum Condition (World Health Organisation). Further to this it is thought that between 40-80% of children with Autism have difficulties relating to sleep (Polimeni et al., 2005). Such sleep problems have been linked to a range of serious implications for the child's wellbeing. This review will explore the effects of non-pharmacological interventions for insomnia in children with autistic spectrum condition.