Autismo y problemas para dormir

While autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a wide range of signs and symptoms, most people who are on the autism spectrum face common challenges. This typically includes difficulties with social interactions and communication, as well as restrictive interests, repetitive behaviors and even sensory sensitivities.

All of these challenges can cause further disruptions in the lives of people who have autism. Unfortunately, another challenge people with ASD often face is getting proper sleep.

In fact, sleeping issues are rather common for both children and adults on the autism spectrum. Research has suggested that more than half of all children on the autism spectrum have at least one chronic sleep problem.

Not only can these be damaging to the person from a mental and physical aspect, it can be very frustrating for parents and loved ones, too, who are doing everything they can to help support them.

Below, we’ll look at some of the reasons why children with autism have sleeping issues, and what can be done about it.

Índice

Why Do Children with Autism Face Sleeping Issues?

Even though a majority of children who have autism face at least one chronic sleep issue, there isn’t one sole reason why this is the case. Just like autism itself, the causes of these sleep issues can be quite varied.

That being said, research has shown that children who exhibit repetitive behaviors, sensory problems and anxiety are more likely to experience more frequent sleep issues. If they line up their toys, flap their hands and/or rock, for instance, they might often feel restless, have difficulties with attention, get angry easily and even throw more frequent tantrums than others.

Kids with autism who spend a lot of time on a computer or phone, or who watch a lot of videos or TV, also may have more sleeping issues — especially if the content they are consuming is scary and/or violent.

Sensory issues can also contribute to poor sleep. Children with autism might have a tough time blocking out noise, light and disruptions, which could then make it harder for them to fall asleep and/or stay asleep.

Some children on the autism spectrum also have other co-occurring mental or physical health challenges, such as PTSD, high levels of cortisol or sleep apnea — all of which can contribute to poor sleep.

What Problems Do Sleeping Issues Cause Children with ASD?

Problems with sleep are actually relatively common in all children. However, it’s especially prominent in children on the autism spectrum.

For neurotypical children, sleep issues and not getting enough sleep often results in being sleepy during the day. It could also lead to other learning problems as well as behavior issues including inattentiveness, aggression and hyperactivity.

Research has shown that children on the autism spectrum who are poor sleepers tend to exhibit problematic behavior more so than children who would be considered good sleepers.

The body and mind need sufficient rest, and if they aren’t getting it, a wide range of problems could emerge. This is especially true in children with autism.

How Can Sleep Be Improved for Children with Autism?

The general approach to helping children with autism get better sleep is similar to that for neurotypical children. It’s important to establish good practices and “sleep hygiene,” which will help them rest better.

First, establish a bedtime routine. This should start at least one hour before you would want them in bed, and should be followed whether you’re at home or away from home such as on vacation.

It can include putting on pajamas, brushing their teeth, turning off electronics, reading and any other activity that’s relaxing to everyone involved. Some children might do better by having a warm bath or even a small snack before they go to bed.

Second, having a comfortable sleep environment is very important. Children with autism might be attached to a stuffed animal or toy, and if appropriate, these can be incorporated into their bedtime routine.

The room itself should be dark and cool, while also as quiet as possible. This will help to remove any potential sensory challenges they might face. Blackout curtains might be useful in this regard to block out as much light as you can.

Finally, work over time with your child so they fall asleep by themselves — without anyone else in their room. This may take some time to accomplish, especially as you’re starting out and/or if your child is younger.

However, it is very important for their long-term sleep hygiene that they are able to fall asleep on their own, without anyone else there.

These are certainly not the only strategies you can employ, but they are a good starting point.

Blue Gems ABA Helps Children with Autism Improve Sleeping Issues

Sleeping issues are unfortunately very common for children with autism. Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep and/or not getting enough sleep can exacerbate problem behaviors and make it tougher for children to live a happy and healthy life.

En Blue Gems ABA, we have a team of BCBAs who are dedicated to helping support children on the autism spectrum by administering applied behavioral analysis. Also known as ABA therapy, this science- and evidence-based approach to learning and behavior helps children with ASD build the skills they need to thrive.

Among many other things, ABA therapy can help address root causes of sleeping issues, helping children get the rest that their mind and body so desperately need.

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