School exercise program aims to solve sleep struggles in autistic kids

NCT ID NCT07277101

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested a 16-week sensory-friendly physical activity program for autistic children aged 7-12 in special education schools. The program included predictable routines and calming cool-downs to help with sleep. Researchers measured sleep quality using wrist monitors and parent reports. The goal is to find a practical, school-based way to improve sleep without specialist clinics.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Sensory-friendly physical activity program

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple, school-based way to help autistic children sleep better without medication.

What could go wrong

This is a completed trial with 106 children in China, so results may not apply to all autistic children. The program is behavioural, so benefits may be modest and depend on consistent delivery.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

autism autism spectrum disorder insomnia Parasomnias sleep disorder, initiating and maintaining sleep

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Shanghai University of Sport, School of Physical Education and Training

    Shanghai, 200438, China