Sleep can be challenging for children with autism due to sensory issues, difficulty with transitions, behavioural concerns etc. Enough sleep is crucial for a child’s development. It helps them learn new skills and maintain them over time, supporting overall growth and well-being.
Here are key strategies:
1. Stick to a Schedule
Keep bedtime and wake-up times consistent, even on weekends so your child knows what to expect. Visuals and timers can be helpful prompts for some children.
2. Create a Comfortable Space
Make the room quiet, dark, and cool. Use blackout curtains, white noise, and keep the environment consistent.
3. Use Visual Aids
Picture schedules or social stories help break the routine into easy steps, like brushing teeth and reading. Make a schedule for the entire bedtime routine and breakdown the individual skills using pictures if necessary.
4. Incorporate Calming Activities
Try deep breathing, stretching, or reading before bed. Avoid screens at least an hour before sleep. Keeping the activities calming prior to bed helps to signal that sleep is coming.
5. Use Transition Cues
A phrase, song, or dimming the lights can signal bedtime and make transitions smoother.
6. Be Patient and Flexible
A structured bedtime routine helps autistic children feel secure, leading to better sleep and a happier home.
Not every night will be perfect. Adjust as needed, and reach out to Shaping Waves when you need support.
A structured bedtime routine helps with consistency and creating routines, leading to better sleep and a happier home.
