How to help an autistic child sleep safely
Many children have difficulty going to sleep and can find bedtime an upsetting time, for autistic children however, being able to have a good night's sleep can be particularly difficult. Below we outline some tips that may help a child with autism have a better night's sleep.
1. Create a comfortable bedroom environment
Autistic children have sensory differences, which can make it difficult for them to relax and feel comfortable enough to sleep. For this reason, it is important you make their bedroom environment as comfortable and peaceful as possible. For example, you may wish to purchase a reinforced divan base for an autistic child's bed, as this will ensure they are comfortable as they fall asleep.
Discover: Heavy Duty Divan Base
2. Reduce distractions
Reducing distractions in a bedroom can help a child with autism to get to sleep. You can choose this by choosing a simple bed frame for your child and removing their toys from their room in the evening. A chest of drawers can be used to neatly store toys before bed. If, however, toys help your child to feel settled, you should leave them in the bedroom throughout the night.
Discover: Robust 3 Drawer Chest
3. Block out light and noise
Use thick curtains or blackout blinds to prevent any light from entering your child's bedroom. You may also wish to consider adding a thick carpet or rug to your child's room to help reduce any noises that may disturb your child. If your child's bed is currently against a wall where noise may be coming though, you may wish to move your child's bed to a quieter area of their room, you may need to purchase a smaller bed to ensure you can move the bed into any space within their room.
4. Find a routine
Find a routine that helps your child to feel relaxed and sleepy, and practice this routine every night. This could be anything from bathing your child to encouraging them to stretch and learn a few child-friendly yoga poses before bed. Sitting by your child's bed and reading with them, or listening to music together, may help your child to relax and can also be completed as part of an evening routine.
At Reinforced Beds, we have a range of beds for challenging behaviours, including autism dedicated to adults and children. For more guidance about creating the best bedroom environment for a child with autism as possible, do not hesitate to contact us today.