Highly practical solutions to help children with autism spectrum disorder sleep
 
(Here are some tips to help you get kids to sleep.)
 
* How to choose a sleeping program for your autistic child?

/ Choose ideas that fit your family lifestyle.
Only engage in a new sleep program when you have the time and energy to see if it works.
/ Try a small change first and slowly add other changes at the same time
/ be patient. It may take weeks or months for you to see the change.
* How to maintain a normal daily routine and habits?
 
 
/ Keep waking and sleeping times the same seven days a week as much as possible.
/ Set aside bedtime when your baby is tired.
 
Specify a specific snooze list for young children. Take a nap until 4pm to finish. Try to avoid unplanned naps.
 
Avoid heavy snacks before bed. Light snacks with carbohydrates such as cheese or cookies may help your baby fall asleep.
 
/ Expose your baby to natural light when he wakes up. For example: open the curtain in their bedroom.
 
Exercise during the day but not two to three hours before bedtime.
 
/ Avoid caffeinated products. Like chocolate, tea or coffee. Their irritating effects can last up to 12 hours.
 
Reduce or avoid using the bedroom for daily activities such as writing, playing or leisure.
 
* How to get a certain hour of sleep a day?
 
/ 15-30 minutes before normal sleep Start the day short and predictable. Do this in a regular manner every night to calm your baby and get him ready for bed.
Avoid exciting activities such as watching movies, playing games, playing computer games, or performing activities as part of your daily routine.
* How to create a stable and comfortable sleeping environment?
 
Make sure your child is not in a very hot or cold environment and keep the room dark and quiet. Add soothing sound if needed overnight.
/ Add a bedside lamp. If your child needs it, but let the lights on all night.
/ Provide a heavy window cover to prevent outside lights from shining.
/ Use tools for your child's bedding and pajamas that he or she likes.
* How to teach your child to sleep alone?
/ Parents or nurses should leave the room gradually. Try to sit on a chair next to your crib instead of lying next to him. Gradually move the chair away from the bed every night. The ultimate goal is to get the chair out of the room.
/ If you need to go back to the room, keep all your interactions with your child short and boring. For example: you can say "you are fine, go to sleep" and go again.
/ Try to spend more time going to your child's room