An autistic child having difficulty with sleep is common. They may struggle falling asleep, staying asleep, and having a consistent sleep schedule.
Why so prevalent?
One of the common sleep issues in children with autism is insomnia. This can be due to a variety of factors such as anxiety, stress, or most likely sensory sensitivities.
For example, children with autism may be sensitive to noise or light, making it difficult for them to fall asleep in a typical bedroom environment.
When you think about it if someone turned your senses up to a 10 you too many struggle to fall and stay asleep.
Another factor which may be in play is the child laking social awareness. The social awareness factor relates to recognising that night time is time for sleep and that family members won’t want to play or be awake at these times.
Another possible issue may be if a child craves constant movement it may feel actually uncomfortable for them to lie still for periods of time.
What to do
Solving the riddle of sleep for an autistic child is a challenge for millions of parents across the world.
Firstly it is important to first identify the underlying cause of the problem. For example, if a child is having trouble falling asleep due to sensory sensitivities, creating a calm and comfortable sleep environment may be beneficial.
This can include things like using a white noise machine, using a weighted blanket, or using a nightlight.
Another more drastic measure would be to try to reduce the outside noise entering the bedroom by installing double or even triple glazing as an example.
It’s also important to establish a consistent sleep routine, as children with autism may benefit from routine and structure.
This can include things like reading a bedtime story, singing a lullaby, or taking a warm bath before bed. The key would be to pick a routine and to stick to it.
One aggravating factor could be the child’s exposure to ‘blue light’ which is effectively screen time just before bed. If you manage the time your child is on an electronic device then that may make improvements.
Summary
Overall, sleep issues are common in children with autism, but with the right strategies and support, they can be addressed and managed.
It’s important for families to work with professionals to create a personalised sleep plan that addresses the child’s specific needs and concerns.
Feel free to browse our archive for more articles on raising an autistic child. Also you may wish to visit the UK’s National Autistic Society’s website here.
