Sleep and Additional Needs

Some children with additional needs can experience sleep difficulties that are different from those experienced by other children. Sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, changes to routine, anxiety and differences in how children process their environment can all affect sleep. Every child is different, so what works for one child may not work for another. Small changes and a consistent approach can sometimes make bedtime and sleep easier.

Things that can affect sleep
Children with additional needs may experience difficulties with:

Settling and getting to sleep
Staying asleep or waking frequently
Waking very early
Changes to their sleep routine
Sensitivity to light, noise, temperature or bedding
Anxiety around bedtime or separation
Difficulty understanding or communicating that they are tired
Finding it difficult to relax and wind down
Sleep being affected by medication, physical health or other conditions

Sensory needs and sleep

Think about what your child's senses are experiencing at bedtime.
Some children may find things such as bright lights, household noise, certain fabrics, room temperature or particular smells distracting or uncomfortable.
You may be able to make bedtime easier by adapting the environment to your child's individual sensory preferences.

Keeping routines predictable

A familiar and predictable bedtime routine can be particularly helpful for some children with additional needs.
Using the same sequence of activities each night, visual timetables, pictures or other communication methods may help your child understand what is happening next and prepare for bedtime.

Find what works for your child

There is no single approach that works for every child. You may need to try different strategies and make small changes over time.
Try to focus on your child's individual needs rather than comparing their sleep with other children.

Specialist sleep support

If your child has additional needs and their sleep is causing difficulties for them or your family, specialist advice may be available.

Cerebra – Sleep Advice Service
Cerebra provides specialist sleep advice and support for families of children with brain conditions, including practical resources and access to sleep support.

The Sleep Charity
Provides general advice and resources around children's sleep and may also have useful information for families of children with additional needs.

When to seek advice

Speak to your child's GP, health visitor, paediatrician or other healthcare professional if you are concerned about their sleep, particularly if sleep difficulties are persistent, significantly affecting your child's daytime wellbeing or you think an underlying health problem may be contributing.