Exploring the link between autism and disrupted sleep patterns in children

Sleep is an essential aspect of our wellbeing, yet it often largely goes unnoticed until disrupted. For children with autism, this fundamental need can present unique challenges, so if you are a parent of a child with autism I hope you can take some comfort from knowing you aren't alone with any sleep challenges you are facing. In this blog post, we delve into the intricate relationship between autism and disrupted sleep patterns in children, shedding light on the lesser-known impacts of this condition.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition that influences a child's social interactions, communication skills, and behaviour. Individuals with autism often experience sensory sensitivities and difficulties in processing information, leading to unique responses to their environment. While the symptoms and severity of ASD vary widely among individuals, one prevalent but often overlooked aspect is the impact on sleep patterns.

The complex relationship: autism and sleep

Children with autism frequently encounter challenges regarding their sleep, which can manifest in various ways. From difficulty falling asleep and frequent awakenings during the night to shorter sleep durations, these disruptions can have profound effects on the child's physical and emotional wellbeing and on the rest of the household. Sleep disturbances can exacerbate the core symptoms of autism, such as difficulties in communication and social interactions, further complicating the child's daily life.

Factors Contributing to Sleep Issues in Children with Autism

Evening chronotype

Children with ASD often fall into the ‘Evening Chronotype’, which has been linked to increased rates of behavioural and emotional problems. This can also be exacerbated by a tendency to wake early as well.  It also appears the children with Autism do not all need the same sleep quantity as a typical child. 

Sensory sensitivities

Children with autism may have heightened sensory sensitivities that make it challenging to wind down before bedtime. Everyday stimuli, such as light, noise, or textures, can be overwhelming, disrupting their ability to relax and fall asleep. One of the challenges around textures is that on one day the child may find a certain texture soothing and calming and the next day it is irritating so this creates further considerations. 

Nutritional needs

Autistic children often have ‘food rules’, which can see them being deficient in nutrients. As a result anaemia and Restless Leg syndrome are all common problems, both of which contribute to sleep difficulties.  It appears that Autistic children have altered gut microbiotas which affect how nutrients are absorbed, although research is still fairly new on this front. 

Communication difficulties

The struggle to communicate effectively can lead to increased anxiety and stress for children with autism. These emotional challenges can spill over into their bedtime routine, making it harder for them to transition to a state of rest.

Behavioural patterns

Rigid behavioural patterns are common in individuals with autism, and these routines can extend to sleep habits. Any disruptions to their established bedtime rituals can trigger anxiety and resistance to sleep, further complicating the process.

Impacts of Disrupted Sleep on Children with Autism

Cognitive functioning

Quality sleep is crucial for cognitive development, learning, and memory consolidation. Disrupted sleep patterns can hinder these processes, affecting a child's cognitive functioning and academic performance.

Emotional regulation

Sleep plays a pivotal role in emotional regulation. For children with autism, inadequate rest can lead to heightened emotional reactivity, irritability, and difficulty managing their emotions effectively.

Physical health

Chronic sleep disturbances can have detrimental effects on a child's physical health, impacting their immune system, growth, and overall well-being. Sleep deprivation in children with autism can exacerbate existing health conditions and decrease their resilience to illnesses.

Strategies to promote quality sleep in children with autism

Establishing a consistent bedtime routine

Creating a structured bedtime routine can provide children with autism a sense of predictability and security, easing the transition to sleep. A visual bedtime chart, that your child has some ownership over creating, is often valuable. If there are parts of the bedtime routine that your child finds particularly challenging, such as teeth brushing, put these towards the start of the routine.

Creating a calm sleep environment

Minimising sensory stimuli in the bedroom, such as reducing noise and light levels, can help create a calming sleep environment conducive to rest. Blackout blinds, white noise machines and a thicker carpet can all help.

Implementing relaxation techniques

Incorporating relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or gentle sensory activities, can help children wind down before bedtime and promote relaxation.

Recognising sleep needs

Children with autism often have lower sleep needs than other children, although it is fair to say that everyone’s sleep needs are different.  Whilst the average sleep needs for say a 7-year-old child is 10-11 hours, at every age there are short sleepers who need less sleep and vice versa.  Therefore, try not to insist on set number of hours of sleep, but instead look at your child's needs as an individual.  See how they are doing during the day to determine their sleep needs.  Are they waking up easily and not falling asleep whilst, for example, in the car?  If so, chances are they are getting enough sleep.

Sensory sensitivities

Depending on any sensory sensitivities, your child could benefit from a bear hug, being wrapped snuggly in a blanket, being offered a choice of bedding, from the Wilbarger Brushing Protocol, or from PJs with flat seams and printed care instructions instead of a label, for example.

Nutritional needs

There are food challenges associated with ASD, so please do not think it is your fault. If you have any concerns about your child's eating, it is important to seek additional support from your child's GP or Health Visitor.

In conclusion, the connection between autism and disrupted sleep patterns underscores the importance of recognising and addressing these challenges to support the wellbeing of both children with autism and their families. By understanding the factors contributing to sleep disturbances and implementing strategies to promote quality rest, parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals can create a nurturing environment that fosters healthier sleep habits and enhances the overall quality of life for children with autism.

Should you find yourself wanting to know more about sleep, or wanting more personalised support, check out our range of Sleep Packages.