About SLEEP Friendly Cities

Founded by Dr. Mattina Davenport at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, SLEEP Friendly Cities brings together researchers, healthcare professionals, community leaders and dedicated partners committed to advancing child and family sleep health and promoting health equity.

Based at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, a nationally recognized pediatric healthcare and research institution, SLEEP Friendly Cities builds on interdisciplinary expertise in sleep medicine, pediatric psychology, population health, prevention science, community-engaged research and health equity. Our work connects scientific evidence with community knowledge to better understand and address the social, environmental and institutional conditions that shape healthy sleep.

We recognize that healthy sleep extends beyond individual behaviors and clinical care. Through research, education, community partnerships and systems-level collaboration, we work to strengthen the resources, environments and opportunities that help children and families achieve restorative sleep.

Our work is made possible through meaningful partnerships with families, community organizations, schools, workplaces, faith communities, healthcare systems and local institutions. Together, we are building a community-driven movement that translates evidence into action, strengthens local assets and creates lasting opportunities for healthier sleep and thriving communities.