A pilot randomized controlled trial examining the impact of a sleep intervention targeting home routines on young children's (3–6 years) physical activity

Background: Given evidence suggesting that sleep impacts on metabolic processes, interventions targeting sleep may improve child physical activity (PA). Objectives: To describe the potential effect of an intervention to increase sleep on young children's (3–6 years) moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) and total PA. To determine adherence to the intervention, impact on sleep duration as well as feasibility, uptake and acceptability was also assessed. Methods: Pilot randomized controlled trial with 76 parent–child dyads randomly allocated to an intervention (n = 38) or control group (n = 38). Parents in the intervention group received a 3-month theory-informed intervention consisting of an online video, a telephone call and two text messages. Child PA was assessed using accelerometers at baseline and approximately 3 months. Parents also completed a sleep log and a telephone interview. Results: The consent rate was 41% (76/186). Estimated effect size for the intervention relative to control was 10.8 min/day for MVPA, 2.7 min/day for PA and 0.9 h for sleep. Sixteen (44%) parents accessed the video, and 18 (50%) received the telephone call. Over 40% of parents found the video and telephone call useful/very useful. Conclusions: This study reports promising effects that an intervention targeting sleep may improve child MVPA and sleep duration. Some modifications to data collection methods and intervention delivery are needed.