5 Ways You Can Help Your Autistic Child Sleep Better

Would it surprise you to learn that Autism Spectrum Disorder and problems with sleep are closely related? Nearly two-thirds of youngsters with ASD also “experience debilitating sleep disturbance.”

How do you help restless children wind down for bed? What can you do to help them sleep through the night?

A good night’s sleep is essential for children’s growth and mental and physical development. Are you looking for tips to help your kids sleep better? Keep reading to learn how to help your ASD child fall asleep and stay asleep.

Does Your Child Have Autism Spectrum Disorder? Learn How to Help Them Sleep Better

Is your child’s erratic sleep behaviour keeping both of you from getting adequate sleep? Let’s look at some ways to help you all get some very important shut eye.

1. Keep a Nightly Routine

Routine is important to children especially those with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Stick to the same routine every night for bedtime.

At the same time, every night begins a bedtime ritual. Do something your child enjoys about 15 minutes before you start the routine. Begin with a bath and then tuck your child and read a story. Try playing soft music.

Don’t let them fall asleep on the sofa or in your bed.

2. Start Winding Down Early

Turn off the television, electronics, and any other stimulating activities about an hour before bedtime. Don’t allow caffeine or sugary snacks too close to bedtime.

Since ASD children sometimes have communication problems, try to get them to express any concerns before they get into bed so you can calm their fears or worries.

3. Keep Out the Light

Use room-darkening shades or curtains to prevent sensory distractions. Darkness sends a signal to the body that it is time to sleep. It triggers the brain to produce melatonin to help you sleep.

If there’s light in the room, it can mess up sleep patterns because light stimulates the body and the mind.

4. No Electronics in the Bedroom

Make the bedroom an area for sleep only. Keep electronics like tv, video games, and tablets out of the room so they are not a distraction from sleep. Even a sleep tracker for a baby can be a problem if it has a light that stays on.

The blue light from digital screens interferes with circadian rhythms that regulate the sleep cycle.

5. Daily Outdoor Activity

Getting outdoors is the best way to experience fresh air and natural light. When kids play outside, they run, jump, climb, and generally move around more than they do inside.

This activity releases endorphins and helps the body produce melatonin which makes people sleepy.

Problems Sleeping?

Now you know how to help your child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) overcome sleeping problems. Give these tips a try and see which ones work best for you.

Sleep is essential for your child’s growth and development. Ensure they are getting proper rest, with these 5 ways to help your kids sleep better.