Sleep disruptions in children with autism studied This week, a new study has been published in the Journal of Developmental Disorders that examines why children with neurodevelopmental disorders experience higher levels of sleep disturbance. Researchers at the Universities of Leicester and Birmingham studied children ages 2-15 years old with a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders including… Continue Reading
Studies show that a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is likely to experience more sleep issues than a child who is not on the spectrum. A child with autism may find it harder to get to sleep, to stay asleep, and sleep earlier in the day. Frequently, the bedtime routine can be challenging for… Continue Reading
Sensory processing disorders and autism Many children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) struggle with sensory issues including sensory processing disorder (SPD). Chantal Sicile-Kira, “The Autism Advocate,” describes SPD as “a neurological disorder that causes difficulties with processing information from the five senses: vision, auditory, touch, olfaction, and taste, as well as from the sense… Continue Reading
Every child seems to go through a period when sleeping becomes difficult. Whether it’s because there is a monster under the bed or stress from school, parents know there will be sleepless nights. When your child has autism, counting the nights you get to sleep might be easier than counting the sleepless ones. It is… Continue Reading
“Our son didn’t sleep for YEARS until he started listening to your music. I have to admit the concept sounded a bit like snake oil at the beginning, but now I am a true believer. I sing your praises to anyone who mentions sleep issues. Kids with autism (and their parents) have many challenges every… Continue Reading
The inability to get a good night’s sleep is experienced by most people at one time or another. However, recent studies show sleep concerns are more prevalent with people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). For many people with autism, it can be a challenge to get to sleep and stay asleep, which can have… Continue Reading
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry disclosed that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who have refractory insomnia will benefit from prolonged release melatonin (PEDPRM). The trial conducted was random, placebo-controlled, and double-blind. Profiles of participants There were 125 participants in the trial aged 2 to… Continue Reading
Sleep problems are common in typically developing children, but can be particularly prevalent in children with Asperger’s and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). These sleep problems often appear as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early. Sleep is an essential element in emotional and physical health, and disruptions in sleep can negatively affect coping… Continue Reading
Insomnia (sleeplessness) is quite common among all age groups due to lifestyle changes and associated stressors, which also leads to anxiety depression, burn-out, and stress. Stress can cause complicated physiological changes such as increased blood pressure, heart rate, metabolic changes, or indigestion. Sleeplessness affects children with autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD),… Continue Reading
In order to have a good day, your child must sleep. That is easier said than done when raising a child on the spectrum. The most important thing to establish immediately is a nighttime routine. This routine must be consistent and enjoyable. This is how we succeeded: Set a nightly bedtime and STICK TO IT!… Continue Reading