Sleep Issues are Common in Autistic Children
Studies have shown that at least 50% of children with autism have sleep issues. Issues may include difficulty falling asleep, waking during the night, and difficulty falling asleep after waking. Research has also shown that sleep issues result in more intense behavioral and learning issues for children with autism.
Possible Causes of Poor Sleep
There are several possible causes for the sleep issues that are experienced by children with autism.
- Genetics
- Sensory issues, such as sensitivity to light, noise, or even the feel of bedtime clothing or sheets
- Gastrointestinal issues, anxiety, or lack of melatonin (a sleep-related hormone)
Keep a Sleep Study or Diary
There are several things that parents may want to try to improve their child’s sleep. Regardless of what you try, it is also recommended that you keep a sleep diary so that you can better determine which of these measures is effective. The diary will also give clues regarding which foods, activities, events, stressors, etc., may be causing your child problems with sleep.
Specific Steps That May Help Sleep Quality
In addition to keeping a sleep diary, it’s important to think about your bedtime routine and sleep environment. The following are recommendations that parents may want to try to help improve their child’s sleep quality.
- Keep the same schedule each day of the week for wake time and sleep time.
- Make sure that your child gets exercise during the day, except for the two to three hours before bedtime.
- Turn electronic devices off at least 30 minutes before the time your child is to go to sleep and have a nighttime routine. The routine may include soothing activities such as a warm bath, reading, and maybe a light snack.
- Make sure that bedding and nighttime clothing are comfortable for your child. A weighted blanket may also help.
- Reduce sensory issues by ensuring that the room will be cool and dark, which may require dark curtains. If your child needs some light then a nightlight may be helpful.
- A white noise machine may help to reduce sensory issues related to noise.
- If your child does not want to sleep alone, instead of getting in bed with them, try sitting in a chair next to the bed, where you are close enough to touch them if needed. Being in a chair will allow you to gradually, for days or weeks, move the chair further and further away from the bed, and eventually out of the room. The goal is to have them fall asleep by themselves without the need to have a parent present.
- If your child wakes in the night, put them back in bed and use as few words as possible before leaving the room again. Be reassuring, but do not engage in conversation.
- You may also want to consult your child’s physician about whether they would recommend a melatonin supplement to help your child with sleep. These supplements are available without a prescription.
Autism Speaks has more detailed advice and visual tools to help children with autism who have sleep issues. Check it out: https://www.autismspeaks.org/tool-kit/atnair-p-strategies-improve-sleep-children-autism
Navigating How Autism Affects Sleep
Sleep issues are common for children and adults with autism. By trying some of the measures listed above and keeping a diary, parents can help their children with autism sleep better and improve sleep for parents as well.
If you’re a parent or caregiver seeking more guidance on how to address sleep challenges in children with ASD, don’t hesitate to reach out to Steps to Progress. Our team of experienced professionals specializes in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, and we understand the unique needs of individuals on the autism spectrum. We can provide you with personalized tips and strategies tailored to your child’s specific situation. Contact us today to take the first step towards a better night’s sleep for your loved one and yourself.
