A good night's sleep is essential for a child's overall wellbeing, affecting their development, mood, learning, and behaviour. Flora, like many autistic children, has difficulties sleeping. This could be due to various factors, such as:
Anxiety
Sensory Sensitivities: Bright screens, loud noises or uncomfortable bed sheets can disrupt sleep.
Melatonin Imbalance: Melatonin, the body's natural sleep hormone, can be disrupted in some autistic children.
Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions or food sensitivities can also contribute to sleep problems.
Inability to recognise the feeling of being sleepy or tired.
How can we help Flora improve and manage her sleep?
Sleep Diary: This can help us identify patterns of behaviour and habits that may be disrupting sleep.
Consistent Routine: Using the patterns we've identified, we can establish a daily sleep and wake-up schedule, even on weekends.
Environment: It's important for the bedroom to be as dark, quiet, and cool as possible.
Sensory Input: Use comfortable bedding. If the child needs complete silence to sleep, earplugs can be used. Some children relax with white noise machines, such as a hairdryer.
Screen Time: Turn off electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime due to the blue light they emit.
Seek Professional Advice: If difficulties persist, talk to the doctor or professionals working with your child to explore sleep management strategies. In some cases, medication such as melatonin may be considered.
It's worth remembering: With patience, consistency, and the right support, you can help your child develop good sleep habits and achieve restful nights.
(Source: National Autistic Society (NAS) and National Health System)
We will share more tips and activities in the future, so keep visiting us.
You can contact us at florastophasma@gmail.com if you wish to receive advice and strategies tailored to you. The online session includes the discussion and creation of the child's profile, personalized program and symbols, as well as a follow-up meeting, lasting 45-60 minutes upon payment.
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