Trying to keep our children calm and comfortable is a key priority, but why do autistic children like weighted blankets?
Benefits of weighted blankets
The first point to cover is an obvious one in that not all autistic children like weighted blankets.
They all have their individual needs and preferences.
With that said they are known to provide comfort and a sense of security to many individuals, including autistic kids.
Some research has suggested that weighted blankets may have a calming effect and help people fall asleep more easily and sleep more soundly.
The pressure from the weights in the blanket is thought to provide a sense of security and comfort, similar to the feeling of being held or hugged.
Several reasons can explain why these blankets are specifically appreciated by children on the autism spectrum:
Sensory processing
Autism is often associated with sensory processing differences.
Autistic children may be hypersensitive to sensory stimuli or have difficulty processing sensory information.
The pressure provided by a weighted blanket can help regulate sensory input and provide a calming effect.
It can reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed by sights and sounds to create a more comfortable environment
Proprioceptive input
Weighted blankets offer a form of proprioceptive input, which is the deep pressure and awareness of one’s body position in space.
This type of input can be beneficial for children with autism as it can enhance body awareness, stability, and coordination.
Anxiety and stress reduction
Autistic children may experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress due to various challenges associated with the condition.
The gentle pressure from a weighted blanket can trigger the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
These are associated with feelings of relaxation and well-being. This may help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
Sleep
Many autistic children struggle with sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night.
Weighted blankets have been reported to improve sleep quality. The added comfort and security of a weighted blanket may also help the child feel more relaxed, leading to better sleep patterns.
What are weighted blankets
Weighted blankets are a type of therapeutic blanket filled with materials like plastic pellets, glass beads, or other dense substances to add weight.
The purpose of these blankets is to provide deep pressure stimulation, which some people find can have a calming and relaxing effect on the body.
The weight of these blankets typically ranges from 5 to 30 pounds (2.3 to 13.6 kilograms). But they can be purchased in a wide range of weights and sizes.
The optimal weight is dependent on the user’s body weight and individual preferences. The weight is evenly distributed throughout the blanket to ensure a consistent and comfortable pressure.
Where can you buy a weighted blanket?
Frankly they are on sale at most large retailers. However this one on Amazon comes with good reviews and the peace of mind of a no hassle returns policy.
Summary – Why do autistic children like weighted blankets
It is important to note that weighted blankets are not a cure-all for sleep problems and may not be suitable for everyone.
But with that said many parents have reported improvement in their child’s sleep pattern when they have introduced one.
Parents could try a process of trial and error with a weighted blanket for their autistic child.
A slow introduction perhaps on a sofa before moving the blanket to the child’s bed may be helpful.
