# Exploring Lifestyles and Sensory Processing Patterns of Toddlers in Relation to Sleep Patterns Using Body Movement Analysis

## TL;DR

This study examines how toddlers' lifestyles and sensory processing affect their sleep quality by analyzing body movements during sleep.

## Contribution

The study introduces a novel approach combining actigraphy and sensory processing assessments to evaluate sleep quality in toddlers.

## Key findings

- Body movements were significantly lower during the first 3 hours of sleep in toddlers.
- Longer sleep latency was linked to media use and higher pre-bedtime activity levels.
- Auditory and oral sensory scores correlated with increased body movements during early sleep.

## Abstract

This study explored the impact of lifestyle habits and sensory processing patterns on sleep quality by analyzing body movements (BMs) during the first and last 3 h of sleep in toddlers. We collected cross-sectional data about sleep-related habits from 58 toddlers using a mobile application. Actigraphy measured BMs during nighttime sleep and 1 h before bedtime, as well as sleep latency, over 8 consecutive days. The Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile was used to assess the toddlers’ sensory processing patterns. The participants had a mean age of 22.0 ± 2.0 months. BMs were significantly lower during the first 3 h of sleep. Longer sleep latency was significantly associated with media use and higher activity levels before bedtime. Ending a nap earlier and consuming a substantial breakfast were correlated with lower BMs during the first 3 h of sleep. Auditory and oral sensory scores were positively correlated with BMs during the first 3 h of sleep. However, no specific factors related to lifestyle habits or sensory processing patterns were found to correlate with BMs during the last 3 h of sleep. Lifestyle habits and sensory processing patterns have a significant impact on toddlers’ sleep quality, emphasizing the importance of appropriate routines and environments.