Today we’re talking about the complex and often misunderstood sleep challenges that show up in neurodivergent kids with Dr. Melisa Moore, a clinical psychologist who is board-certified in behavioral sleep medicine and has spent years supporting children, teens, and young adults with sleep and mood concerns. We’ll talk about some of the concepts in Melisa’s new book, The Good Sleep Guide for Neurodivergent Kids, including why sleep issues are so common in neurodivergent children, the role of underlying conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, how to recognize when something more than “typical” sleep struggles might be going on, and what kinds of support can actually make a difference. Melisa also shares practical strategies for improving sleep routines and helping kids—and their families—get the rest they need.
About Melisa Moore, PhD
Melisa Moore, PhD, is a clinical psychologist board-certified in behavioral sleep medicine. Dr. Moore currently practices in the Los Angeles area and virtually across the country, supporting children, teens, and young adults for a variety of sleep and mood issues. She also works for the Sleep Center at Rady Children’s Health, San Diego. Dr. Moore continues to supervise medical and psychology trainees and teaches courses on pediatric sleep around the world. She previously worked at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for 17 years, serving as the Psychosocial Director of the Sleep Center and as faculty of the University of Pennsylvania.
Inspired by her work with families in combination with her experience as a mom, Dr. Moore’s book The Good Sleep Guide for Neurodivergent Kids is a compassionate, comprehensive, science-backed guide to improving sleep in neurodiverse children and teens, released by New World Library on March 4, 2026.
Things you'll learn from this episode
How biology, genetics, and circadian rhythms shape sleep patterns in neurodivergent children
Why sleep challenges are so common in kids with ADHD and autism, and what’s driving them
How to recognize signs of obstructive sleep apnea and other underlying sleep disorders
Why co-occurring conditions like allergies or hypermobility can further disrupt sleep
How consistent routines and supportive sleep associations can improve bedtime success
When to seek professional support and what options are available for addressing complex sleep issues
Resources mentioned
Dr. Melisa Moore’s website
The Good Sleep Guide for Neurodivergent Kids: Science-Backed Strategies for Children and Teens with ADHD, Autism, and Other Neurodiversities by Melisa Moore, PhD
Alex Mortlock Explains Circadian Rhythm Syndromes & Complex Sleep Challenges (Tilt Parenting podcast)
Dr. Mel Houser on Navigating the Healthcare System as a Neurodivergent Person (Tilt Parenting podcast)
Dr. Zachary Rubin on What Every Parent Should Understand About Allergies (Tilt Parenting podcast)
Dr. Roberto Olivardia on ADHD and Sleep Challenges (Tilt Parenting podcast)
American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM)
Pediatric Sleep Council
National Sleep Foundation (NSF)
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