Understanding Sleep Disorders with Autism

Autism Speaks suggests additional tips:

• “The sleep/awake schedule should be regular with not much of a difference between the weekday and weekend schedule.
• Train your child to fall asleep alone. If your child needs a parent present to fall asleep at bedtime, he will no doubt come to need a parent to help him fall back asleep during middle-of-the-night awakenings.
• Daytime exercise can help children sleep better. However, prevent your child from exercising too close to bedtime as this can make it hard for her/him to fall asleep.
• Naps can be ok for preschool children, but not late in the afternoon as they can interfere with bedtime.”

If these suggestions don’t work, it’s time to make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician for input and direction.