260. Neurodiverse brains and sleep: How to modify traditional sleep strategies with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown

Joining me today is Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown to share the science behind why sleep is so essential, how to adapt sleep strategies for those with neurodiverse brains, and practical tips for tackling common sleep challenges.

In this episode, we explore:

- The science of why sleep is so important and foundational for children (spoiler: it’s tied to growth, brain development, immune system regulation, emotion management, and more!)

- The inadvertent mistake many parents make (that even Dr. Funke made with her own son) when they don’t properly understand the different phases of childhood sleep.

- What the research reveals about the sleep architecture and the quality of sleep for kids with neurodiverse brains. (And why it’s not just about quantity.)

- Behavioral cues and environmental strategies you can use to shift your child’s circadian rhythm.

- Why “catching up on sleep” during the weekend actually works against your child.

- Breaking down the R.I.S.E. U.P. Protocol to help both kids and parents wake up easier and stop feeling the urge to hit snooze one more time. 

- The association of ADHD with mouth breathing during sleep and whether or not you should consider physical therapy for mouth breathers.

- When you may want to consider getting a sleep evaluation for your child and what you can expect from a sleep test.

Don’t miss this deep dive into the science of sleep, actionable tips for better rest, and strategies to help your whole family thrive!

LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. FUNKE:

https://www.therestfulsleepplace.com/

READ DR. FUNKE'S BOOK:

📚 Beyond Tired: A Sleep Physician’s Guide to Solving Your Child’s Sleep Problems for Good

WATCH DR. FUNKE'S YOUTUBE VIDEOS:

💻 RestfulSleepMD

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

📱@restfulsleepmd and @drsarahbren

ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES:

The sunrise clock Dr. Sarah uses to make waking up easier for her

CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE:

🎧 How to make mindfulness more “user-friendly” for parents with ADHD with Dr. Lidia Zylowska

🎧 ADHD and attachment security: How to connect with and support your neurodiverse child with Dr. Norrine Russell

🎧 Parenting with the “Whole-Brain”: How to work with the brain rather than fight against with Dr. Dan Siegel