Children with autism and special needs may have challenges with sleep, falling asleep, staying asleep or sleeping at all, which not only creates more challenges, but also has an impact on the rest of the family. When your children don't sleep, most likely you don't sleep.
Before my son was diagnosed, I was averaging about 2 hours of sleep because he never slept well. He had a really hard time napping, falling asleep, staying asleep and being a single mother, it was up to me to help him back to sleep, which meant, I never slept. This really took a toll on me as I also had to work full time and it was often difficult for me to focus at work, I started getting depressed, the sleep deprivation is real.
In this podcast, I discuss quite a few things:
- We unpack why children with autism and special needs may have challenges with sleep. There are quite a few theories out there and I was able to research and communicate them here.
- What can you do to help your child sleep. There are a variety of tactics that can help, but it's also important to remember it's not a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone who has sleep challenges. Really get to know your child's challenges and find a solution that works for him/her and the rest of the family.
- What can you do about your sleep, as a parent. There are some things you might need to give up, like I did, and other things to try. Figure out what works for you, to help you get the quality sleep you need.
DM me @susanfink.rise - I'd love to hear from you. What are some of the tactics that have helped your family. What are the things you're doing to get quality sleep. Did this episode help you? I'm open to any and all feedback!
My mission is to help as many people as I can and I cannot do that without you. Thank you, thank you thank you for listening, thank you for your support in sharing this podcast to help others. And until next time, I appreciate, I empathize, and I am here for you. and...We...can do this
Research References:
https://www.autismspeaks.org/sleep
https://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/helping-your-child-with-autism-get-a-good-nights-sleep
https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/143/3/e20180492
https://www.verywellhealth.com/autism-and-sleep-issues-4165825
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