Description
Sleep is a critical foundation for infant development, supporting brain growth, physical health, emotional regulation, and learning. This training module explores the science of sleep in infants aged 0–2 years, with a focus on those with or at risk of cerebral palsy (CP). You will develop an understanding of typical sleep patterns, recognise common sleep challenges, and learn the important role therapists play in identifying and responding to sleep concerns. The module emphasises routine screening, family-centred practice, and evidence-informed approaches to supporting infant sleep and caregiver well-being.
By completing this module, you will learn to:
- Explain the basic science of sleep and its importance for infant development.
- Identify common risk factors and causes of sleep problems and sleep disorders in infants with cerebral palsy.
- Describe typical infant sleep patterns and recognise variability in sleep across early development.
- Understand the importance of routine sleep screening for infants with CP and be familiar with available screening tools.
- Apply clinical decision-making skills to screen, assess and support infants with sleep challenges, including appropriate referral pathways.
- Demonstrate confidence in discussing sleep with families and supporting sleep hygiene in a family-centred way.
- Recognise the impact of sleep on caregiver well-being and family functioning