Forty to eighty percent of kids on the spectrum
experience some sort of sleep problems.
ference. Fabrics like jersey, well-worn
cotton or flannel seem to be easier to tolerate for kids with tactile sensitivities. Using
unscented detergents, especially for pillowcases, is also a good idea.
bient light from the hallway can be helpful
for older children and adults. However,
younger children may need more light to
feel secure sleeping on their own.
9. Routine, routine, routine. This is a
6. Familiar surroundings. Even a slight
universal recommendation when it comes
change in the sounds, scents or light levto good sleep hygiene, but it’s especially
els in a bedroom can make it hard to fall
important for autistic individuals. We like
asleep.
to know what to expect, and our routines
make us feel safe and secure. If possible,
7. A quiet environment or consistent
incorporate some quiet time spent on a
noise. While a TV playing in another
special interest (reading, looking at picroom or the dishwasher running in the
tures, organizing a favorite collection) as
kitchen downstairs may seem insignificant part of the bedtime routine. Special interto the average person, to an autistic child
ests are relaxing and help us de-stress in
with hypersensitive hearing, it can sound ways that few other activities can.
like a deafening roar. While some kids
might need near-total quiet to fall asleep,
10. Natural sleep aids. Both melatonin
others might do better with a consistent
and Epsom salts baths can be helpful for
sound, like white noise or a repetitive na- those who have difficulty falling asleep or
ture sound (running water, wind, waves). staying asleep. Both are available over the
counter, but as with any supplement or
8. A dark room. For autistic children who medication, it’s important to consult with
are light sensitive, the street light seeping your child’s doctor before starting the use
in around the window shades can feel as
of a melatonin supplement, especially if
bright as daylight. Blackout shades and
your child is being treated for any other
closing the bedroom door to block out am- condition or taking any medication.
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Zoom Autism Through Many Lenses