Sleep problems for children with additional needs are common. Parents may find the following information useful on how to develop good sleep practices and how to avoid sleep difficulties developing:
Supporting your child’s sleep routine
- Make sure that your child’s room is quiet and dark.
- Wake the child at a regular hour each morning, so that the circadian cycle is strengthened.
- Keep a regular bedtime for your child.
- Keep room temperature to a comfortable level. High temperatures disturb sleep.
- Environmental noise should be kept to a minimum (no loud TVs).
- Make sure that your child does not go to bed hungry, but do not give drinks/snacks during the night.
- Avoid stimulating activity in the hour before bedtime.
- Do not let your child have prolonged naps in the late afternoon. If your child still needs to sleep, schedule the nap for early afternoon.
- Avoid drinks of cola, chocolate, tea and coffee i.e. caffeine and additives, before bedtime, instead have a warm milk drink.
