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Our son, 6, got an ASD diagnosis about 3 years ago and has been doing well- language developing now, in a good ABA program, autistic support class at school and never had sleep issues before but lately has been getting up constantly at night. Nothing has changed in his room- same sheets, temp consistent, same black out curtains and white noise sound he has always had- at a bit of a loss? Wondering if anyone has experienced this kind of thing and has any suggestions.
You are not alone! Ours was a good sleeper from a baby to about 4 yrs, we have tried many methods so I hope you find something that works for you! (Currently goes to bed well but constantly gets up in the middle of the night at all hours or is up for the day from 2am onward at random not daily). We follow a routine (no changes) we did get a weight blanket i find it helps (recommended by OT and fits to his weight)we had blackout curtains prior as well. Is there anything environmental that has changed for them? Change in there room? Or illness? Or anything to do with his teeth? Like pain etc, maybe it could be related to above (not saying you did not check) growth spurts as well can cause some sleep issues or being new to bathroom breaks (ours was a bit late on training fully ) having to use the bathroom? Or any change in diet ? (Some foods we have noticed for ourselves can cause upset stomach for our son) Or if he is catching a cold the couple days before his sleep goes poorly and then he starts sneezing/coughing and it lines up with his sleep. Its also very common for kids on the spectrum to have sleep regression/ sleeping issues. I spent alot of time reading up on this topic and hope for the best. Hope it is minor for you and passes! Maybe even try no sleep noises just to see if it helps at all? We had one for 2 yrs and then stopped using it because it wasnt really helping anylonger, might sound silly but i do a check list of above, if your son has any sensory issues to clothing/smells or sounds outside the home? perhaps a tag bothering them? We tried melatonin but it did not help us. We also went to a ENT specialist at one point due to snoring and sinus issues whenever sick. Which ended up they were okay but we are to check again in a year.
Also daily routine can have cause and effect like new things during the day might cause waking up in evenings, around holidays for us and birthdays or knowing ahead of something exciting planned we have to not mention till the day of as they will not get any sleep out of excitement
Hi Allison- no naps anymore- they really ended around 4 for him. Up until this point he went to bed at 8:00/ give or take a few minutes and then slept through the night 99% of the time until 5:00 or so. Fingers crossed!
Does he nap? I had to cut out naps really early on for my son to have any chance at a good night's sleep. I hope you figure it out.
https://asatonline.org/research-treatment/clini...
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/p...
I heard weighted blanklets can also help
Autism sleep regressions are common, affecting 50-80% of children with autism, characterized by sudden, temporary disruptions in sleep patterns, including increased night wakings, trouble falling asleep, and behavioral issues at bedtime. These regressions often stem from sensory overload, anxiety, poor melatonin regulation, or transitions.
Common Causes and Factors
Biological Factors: Children with autism often have lower melatonin levels and, sometimes, atypical circadian rhythms that prevent them from feeling tired at appropriate times.
Sensory Processing: Sensory hyper-reactivity can make it difficult for the brain to settle.
Anxiety and Behavioral Shifts: Anxiety, ADHD, or changes in routine (school, travel, illness) often trigger regressions.
Medical Issues: Constipation, GERD, or epilepsy can cause pain and discomfort at night.
Symptoms of Regression
Increased difficulty with the bedtime routine.
Frequent waking during the night, sometimes staying awake for hours.
Waking up extremely early.
Increased daytime hyperactivity, irritability, and anxiety due to lack of rest.
Strategies for Management
Consistent Routines: Maintain a rigid, calming, 30–60 minute bedtime routine (e.g., bath, story, dim lights) to signal to the brain that it is time to sleep.
Environmental Adjustments: Use heavy curtains for darkness, white noise machines to block out sounds, and comfortable bedding.
Visual Aids: Utilize visual schedules (pictures) to show the steps of going to bed.
Limit Screen Time: Avoid screens and blue light at least an hour before bed, as these can inhibit melatonin.
Consult a Professional: Speak with a pediatrician or pediatric sleep specialist, especially if the regression lasts longer than a few weeks or if medical issues are suspected. Melatonin supplements are often considered but should be used under guidance.
Developmental Milestones: Increased imagination can lead to fears of the dark or nightmares.
Anxiety/Stress: School, social situations, or home changes can cause trouble settling down.
Strategies for Re-establishing Sleep
Consistent Bedtime Routine
Address Fears
Remove Screens:
Create a Comfortable Room:.
Thanks for the reply! Will post an update in a few days- will see what happens! Trying to try one thing at a time and then see if it helps the little guy.
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