How early should I seek help if I suspect my child with autism has a sleep disorder?

It’s advisable to seek help as soon as you notice persistent sleep problems that impact your child's daytime functioning or your family’s well-being. Early intervention can prevent sleep issues from becoming more entrenched and can improve your child’s overall development and quality of life. Even if you're unsure if it's a "disorder," discussing concerns about **co-occurring autism and paediatric sleep disorders** with a professional can provide clarity and guidance.

What’s the difference between common childhood sleep issues and a sleep disorder needing intervention in an autistic child?

Many children experience occasional sleep difficulties. However, a sleep disorder is typically characterised by persistent problems with the quality, timing, and amount of sleep, resulting in daytime distress and impairment. In an autistic child, these issues are often more severe, frequent, and complex due to underlying ASD traits. If sleep problems are significantly impacting behaviour, learning, mood, or family functioning, and basic **sleep hygiene** measures aren’t helping, it’s time for a professional assessment to understand if it's typical or part of a more significant challenge related to **Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children**.

Can the **impact of sensory processing on sleep in autistic children** be effectively managed?

Yes, in many cases, the **impact of sensory processing on sleep in autistic children** can be effectively managed. Our Occupational Therapists specialise in **sensory integration** and work with families to create sensory-friendly sleep environments and develop personalised sensory diets. By understanding a child's unique sensory profile, strategies can be implemented to reduce over-stimulation or provide necessary sensory input to promote calm and readiness for sleep.

If my child’s sleep improves, will their autism symptoms also get better?

While improved sleep will not "cure" autism, it can significantly lessen the severity of certain associated challenges. Well-rested children, including those with autism, tend to have better mood regulation, improved attention, reduced irritability, and greater capacity for learning and social engagement. Therefore, addressing sleep problems can lead to noticeable improvements in daytime functioning and a reduction in behaviours that might be exacerbated by sleep deprivation, making it easier to manage core autism symptoms. This highlights the importance of addressing **co-occurring autism and paediatric sleep disorders**.

Understanding Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children: Expert Support at Cadabam’s Child Development centre

Q: How does Cadabam’s tailor **behavioural interventions for sleep problems in autistic children** compared to typically developing children?

While core behavioural principles (like consistency, routines) apply to all children, Cadabam’s tailors interventions by: * **Considering Sensory Sensitivities:** Greatly emphasising the **impact of sensory processing on sleep in autistic children**. * **Utilising Visual Supports:** Using visual schedules, social stories, and timers, which align with the learning strengths of many autistic children. * **Adapting Communication:** Modifying language and instructions to match the child's comprehension level. * **Addressing Rigidity:** Developing strategies to manage insistence on sameness or difficulty with transitions around bedtime. * **Integrating with ASD Therapies:** Ensuring sleep goals are consistent with overall autism intervention plans.

Q: Does Cadabam’s have a **paediatric sleep specialist for autism spectrum disorder** on staff, or do you refer out?

Cadabam’s has a highly skilled multidisciplinary team including child psychologists, occupational therapists, and behavioural therapists who are experienced in managing sleep problems in autistic children, particularly those that are behavioural or sensory-based. For cases requiring medical evaluation for conditions like severe sleep apnea, or complex neurological sleep disorders, we collaborate closely with and can refer to consulting **paediatric sleep specialist for autism spectrum disorder** or paediatric neurologists who have specific expertise in these medical aspects of sleep.

A Child Development centre, like Cadabam’s, is a specialised facility offering comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions for children facing developmental challenges. With over 30+ years of experience, Cadabam’s provides evidence-based care to support children and their families in navigating conditions like autism and associated difficulties, such as paediatric sleep disorders. Distinguishing between autism-related behaviours and primary sleep disorders, or understanding their frequent co-occurrence, can be complex. This page clarifies the nuances of Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children, guiding parents toward effective solutions.

Why Choose Cadabam’s Child Development centre for Autism and Sleep Concerns?

Specialised Expertise in Neurodevelopmental and Co-occurring Conditions

Navigating the intricate relationship between autism and sleep disorders requires specialised knowledge and a comprehensive approach. At Cadabam’s Child Development centre, we are uniquely equipped to support families facing these challenges. Our deep understanding of neurodevelopmental conditions, coupled with our expertise in paediatric behavioural health, makes us a leading choice for families seeking clarity and effective interventions for Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children.

Our Multidisciplinary Team Approach to Complex Cases

At Cadabam’s, we firmly believe in the power of collaboration. Our multidisciplinary team, including child psychologists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, special educators, and consulting paediatric specialists, works in synergy. This collaborative assessment and treatment planning ensures that every facet of a child's well-being is considered. For instance, when evaluating Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children, input from various specialists helps to create a holistic picture, leading to more precise diagnoses and tailored intervention strategies. This integrated approach is crucial for addressing the multifaceted nature of co-occurring autism and paediatric sleep disorders.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure for Comprehensive Evaluation

Cadabam’s Child Development centre is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure designed to facilitate comprehensive evaluations. Our child-friendly environment includes observation rooms and therapy spaces that allow our clinicians to assess behaviours related to both autism spectrum disorder and potential sleep disturbances. These facilities are crucial for accurately diagnosing sleep disorders in children with autism, where direct observation can provide insights that parental reports alone may not capture. This controlled environment helps us understand the impact of sensory processing on sleep in autistic children and other contributing factors.

Seamless Therapy-to-Home Transition for Lasting Sleep Improvements

We understand that interventions applied in a clinical setting must translate effectively to the home environment for sustainable success. Cadabam’s emphasises parent training and provides clear, actionable home strategy implementation guidelines. Our goal is to empower parents with the knowledge and tools they need. This focus on seamless therapy-to-home transition is particularly vital when implementing behavioural interventions for sleep problems in autistic children, ensuring consistency and fostering lasting sleep improvements for the child and the entire family.

Focus on Differentiating and Treating Co-occurring autism and paediatric sleep disorders

A significant portion of our expertise lies in recognising and addressing co-occurring autism and paediatric sleep disorders. We understand that sleep problems can exacerbate autism symptoms, and autistic traits can complicate sleep. Our team is skilled in the differential diagnosis process, carefully teasing apart symptoms to determine if sleep issues are a manifestation of autism, a separate primary sleep disorder, or a combination. This precision allows us to develop targeted treatment plans that address the specific needs arising from these co-occurring autism and paediatric sleep disorders.

Common Challenges: Distinguishing Autism Spectrum Disorder from Primary Sleep Disorders in Children

Unraveling the Connection: Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children

Understanding the intricate link between Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and paediatric sleep disorders is paramount for effective intervention. Many parents and caregivers grapple with the question: are these sleep issues part of autism, or is there a separate sleep disorder at play? Addressing Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children requires a clear understanding of each.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Its Core Characteristics

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent challenges in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts, as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities. These core characteristics manifest uniquely in each individual. Difficulties in social-emotional reciprocity, nonverbal communicative behaviours used for social interaction, and developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships are common. Repetitive motor movements, insistence on sameness, highly restricted interests, and hyper- or hyporeactivity to sensory input are also hallmarks. We embrace the concept of neurodiversity, recognising that ASD represents a different way of processing the world, which can also lead to significant developmental delay in acquiring certain skills.

Common paediatric Sleep Disorders: An Overview

Several types of sleep disorders can affect children, some of which are particularly prevalent or present differently in children with autism:

Behavioural Insomnia of Childhood: This common disorder encompasses difficulties initiating or maintaining sleep. It often involves:
- Limit-setting type: Characterised by a child's refusal to go to bed or stalling tactics.
- Sleep-onset association type: Where a child relies on specific conditions (e.g., being rocked, parental presence) to fall asleep and cannot return to sleep without them upon waking.
Parasomnias: These are undesirable physical events or experiences that occur during entry into sleep, within sleep, or during arousal from sleep.
- Night terrors (Sleep Terrors): Episodes of screaming, intense fear, and flailing while still asleep, often with no memory of the event.
- Sleepwalking (Somnambulism): Walking or performing other complex behaviours while asleep.
Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorders: These involve a misalignment between the desired sleep schedule and the body's internal clock. Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder (DSWPD) is common, where a child naturally falls asleep and wakes up much later than desired. The circadian rhythm can be particularly disrupted in some children.
Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB): This includes conditions like Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to airway blockage. Snoring, gasping, and restless sleep are key signs.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) / Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD): RLS involves an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations, particularly in the evening. PLMD involves repetitive limb movements during sleep.

Why Sleep Problems are Prevalent in Children with Autism

Sleep problems are significantly more common in children with ASD compared to their typically developing peers, with estimates suggesting that 40-80% of autistic children experience significant sleep difficulties. Several factors contribute to this high prevalence:

Impact of sensory processing on sleep in autistic children : Autistic children often have heightened or diminished sensitivities to sensory stimuli. A scratchy pajama tag, a distant background noise, or a faint light can be profoundly disruptive. This altered sensory integration can make it hard to filter out stimuli and achieve a calm state conducive to sleep.
Difficulties with routine and transitions: Many autistic children thrive on predictability. Changes in bedtime routines or unexpected disruptions can cause significant anxiety and resistance to sleep.
Anxiety and co-occurring mental health conditions: Anxiety disorders are common in ASD and can significantly interfere with sleep onset and maintenance due to racing thoughts or worries. Depression and ADHD, also frequently co-occurring, can impact sleep architecture. This is a key aspect of understanding co-occurring autism and paediatric sleep disorders.
Potential differences in melatonin regulation: Some research suggests that children with autism may have abnormalities in melatonin production or its rhythm, the hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles.

Overlapping Symptoms: Where the Lines Blur

The challenge in differentiating Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children often stems from overlapping symptoms. Both conditions can lead to:

Difficulty falling asleep / staying asleep: This is a hallmark of insomnia, but can also be due to ASD-related anxiety or sensory sensitivities. This is also known as increased sleep-onset latency.
Night awakenings: Frequent night awakenings can be a symptom of various sleep disorders or related to ASD factors like gastrointestinal discomfort or sensory issues.
Daytime irritability or hyperactivity: Sleep deprivation, regardless of its cause, commonly leads to mood disturbances and difficulty regulating behaviour during the day. These can be mistaken for or exacerbate core ASD symptoms.
Challenges with attention and learning (poor school performance link): Insufficient sleep impairs cognitive functions like attention, memory, and executive functioning, which are often already areas of challenge for children with ASD. This can significantly impact school performance.

Key Differentiating Factors: Is it Autism, a Sleep Disorder, or Both?

A thorough differential diagnosis is essential. Key factors our clinicians at Cadabam’s consider include:

Presence of core ASD traits independent of sleep: Are the social communication challenges and restricted/repetitive behaviours evident even when the child is well-rested? If these core features of autism are only present or significantly worse during periods of poor sleep, it might point more towards sleep deprivation exacerbating underlying vulnerabilities.
Timing and nature of sleep problem onset: Did the Dsleep problems begin concurrently with the manifestation of ASD traits, or did they develop later? Is the sleep problem consistent with a known paediatric sleep disorder type (e.g., classic signs of OSA)?
Response to basic sleep hygiene vs. more targeted ASD interventions: If implementing consistent bedtime routines and creating a good sleep environment (sleep hygiene) resolves the issue, it might suggest a milder behavioural sleep problem. If sleep issues persist despite good sleep hygiene, or require ASD-specific strategies (e.g., extensive sensory modifications, visual schedules for bedtime), it points to a more complex interplay. This helps in distinguishing Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children.

Early Identification & Comprehensive Assessment Process at Cadabam’s

Accurate Diagnosis: The First Step to Effective Intervention for Sleep Issues in Autism

Early and accurate identification is crucial when addressing sleep problems in autistic children. A comprehensive assessment process forms the bedrock of any effective intervention strategy, especially when trying to discern Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children.

The Cadabam’s Approach: Initial Developmental Screening and Parental Interview

The journey at Cadabam’s typically begins with an initial developmental screening and an in-depth parental interview. Our clinicians take the time to listen to parental concerns, gathering a detailed history of the child’s developmental milestones, behavioural patterns, and critically, their sleep patterns. This includes information about bedtime routines, sleep duration, sleep-onset latency, frequency of night awakenings, and any observed daytime consequences of poor sleep. This early stage helps us understand the scope of the challenges, including potential signs of developmental delay and how they might intersect with sleep.

Comprehensive Assessment for Autism Spectrum Disorder

If autism is suspected or needs to be re-evaluated in the context of sleep disturbances, a comprehensive assessment for ASD is conducted. Our team utilises standardised, gold-standard diagnostic tools such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) where appropriate. These are complemented by careful behavioural observations in various settings. This thorough evaluation ensures that the core features of autism are accurately identified, which is vital for understanding their potential contribution to sleep problems.

Refer to: Autism Assessments at Cadabam’s

Specialised Assessment for Diagnosing sleep disorders in children with autism

Beyond the ASD assessment, Cadabam’s provides a specialised assessment focused on diagnosing sleep disorders in children with autism. This involves:

Detailed sleep history and sleep diaries: Parents are often asked to maintain a sleep diary for one to two weeks, meticulously recording bedtimes, wake times, night awakenings, and daytime naps. This provides objective data on sleep patterns.
Actigraphy (if offered/relevant): In some cases, actigraphy – a small, wrist-watch-like device that monitors rest/activity cycles – may be used to objectively measure sleep parameters over several days or weeks.
Collaboration with/referral for Polysomnography (PSG): For suspected medical sleep disorders like Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) or PLMD, a Polysomnogram (overnight sleep study) is the gold standard. Cadabam’s collaborates with or refers to paediatric sleep labs for PSG when clinically indicated. Our team can then integrate these findings into the overall treatment plan.
Screening for medical contributors: We also screen for common medical conditions that can disrupt sleep in children with autism, such as gastrointestinal issues (reflux, constipation), allergies, or side effects of medications. This multidisciplinary assessment approach to paediatric therapy ensures all potential contributing factors are considered.

The Importance of Family Involvement in Diagnosis and Collaborative Goal-Setting

At Cadabam’s, we view parents and caregivers as integral members of the assessment and treatment team. Family involvement is paramount. We strive to understand family routines, cultural factors that might influence sleep practices, and the family's priorities for intervention. Collaborative goal-setting ensures that the treatment plan is realistic, culturally sensitive, and aligned with the family's capacity and values. This fosters stronger parent-child bonding and promotes greater adherence to interventions, leading to more successful outcomes when tackling Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children.

Therapy & Support Programs for Children with Autism and Sleep Disorders

Tailored Strategies: Addressing Sleep Difficulties in Autistic Children

Once a comprehensive assessment clarifies the interplay of Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children, Cadabam’s Child Development centre offers a range of tailored therapy and support programs. Our evidence-based interventions are designed to address the unique needs of autistic children experiencing sleep difficulties.

Full-Time Developmental Rehabilitation: Integrating Sleep Goals into Holistic Care

For children requiring intensive support, our full-time developmental rehabilitation programs offer a holistic approach. Within this comprehensive framework, sleep goals are seamlessly integrated into the child’s daily therapeutic activities. Therapists work on establishing predictable routines, addressing sensory needs throughout the day to promote calmness by evening, and developing self-regulation skills that indirectly support better sleep. This intensive model allows for consistent reinforcement of behavioural interventions for sleep problems in autistic children and adaptive skills that can positively impact their ability to settle and sleep.

OPD-Based Programs: Consistent Support for Co-occurring autism and paediatric sleep disorders

Our Outpatient Department (OPD) based programs provide ongoing, consistent support for children with co-occurring autism and paediatric sleep disorders. Families can access regular consultations with child psychologists, occupational therapists, and other specialists as needed. These sessions focus on implementing and refining sleep strategies, monitoring progress, addressing new challenges as they arise, and ensuring that interventions for ASD and sleep remain aligned and effective. This regular touchpoint is crucial for long-term management.

Evidence-Based behavioural interventions for sleep problems in autistic children

behavioural strategies form a cornerstone of treating sleep problems in autistic children. Cadabam’s emphasises evidence-based interventions, adapted to the unique learning styles and needs of children with ASD:

Establishing consistent bedtime routines: Creating a predictable sequence of calming activities before bed (e.g., bath, quiet play, storytime) helps signal to the child’s body and mind that it's time to prepare for sleep. Visual schedules can be particularly helpful for autistic children. Good sleep hygiene starts here.
Sleep hygiene education: This involves optimising the sleep environment (dark, quiet, cool, comfortable), diet (avoiding stimulants close to bedtime), and daytime activity levels.
Graduated extinction / Fading sleep-onset associations: For children reliant on specific parental presence or actions to fall asleep, these techniques involve gradually reducing that support in a structured, gentle way to encourage independent sleep skills. This helps tackle behavioural insomnia.
Positive reinforcement strategies: Rewarding desired bedtime behaviours (e.g., staying in bed, falling asleep independently) can be highly effective.
Relaxation techniques adapted for children with autism: Teaching simple relaxation exercises, deep breathing, or guided imagery, modified for an autistic child's comprehension and sensory preferences.
Refer to: Behavioural Therapy for Autism at Cadabam’s (This page can elaborate on how standard behavioural techniques are adapted for sleep issues in the context of autism, considering communication differences and sensory profiles).

Leveraging Sensory Integration Strategies: Addressing the Impact of sensory processing on sleep in autistic children

Recognising the profound impact of sensory processing on sleep in autistic children is key. Our Occupational Therapists, specialising in sensory integration, play a vital role:

Creating a sensory-friendly bedroom environment: This might involve minimising visual clutter, using blackout curtains, selecting specific bedding textures, or introducing calming scents (with caution and individual assessment).
Sensory diet activities during the day: A personalised "sensory diet" includes activities throughout the day that provide the right type and amount of sensory input to help a child feel regulated and calm by evening (e.g., deep pressure activities, movement breaks, quiet focused tasks).
Weighted blankets, white noise: For some children, the deep pressure from a weighted blanket can be calming, and white noise can mask disruptive environmental sounds. However, these should be used judiciously, based on individual assessment and preferences, as they can be aversive for others.
Refer to: Occupational Therapy at Cadabam’s

Parent Training and Home-Based Guidance for Sustained Sleep Success

Empowering parents is a core philosophy at Cadabam’s. We provide comprehensive parent training and home-based guidance:

Digital parent coaching and tele-therapy options: For convenience and accessibility, we offer remote coaching and therapy sessions focused specifically on sleep strategies.
Empowering parents to implement and adapt interventions: We equip parents with the skills and confidence to consistently implement agreed-upon strategies, troubleshoot common issues, and make necessary adjustments as their child grows and develops. Understanding the principles behind the interventions allows for greater flexibility and long-term success.
Refer to: Parent training resources at Cadabam’s

When to Consider Medication: A Collaborative Approach

While behavioural and sensory strategies are the first line of treatment for sleep problems in autistic children, there are situations where medication might be considered. This decision is always made collaboratively and cautiously. If non-pharmacological interventions are insufficient, or if there’s a strong suspicion of an underlying biological factor (e.g., significant melatonin dysregulation), a consultation with a Child Psychiatrist or paediatric Neurologist affiliated with Cadabam’s may be recommended. They can assess the appropriateness of medications like melatonin, always in conjunction with ongoing behavioural support. We may also work closely with a paediatric sleep specialist for autism spectrum disorder in such cases.

Multidisciplinary Team at Cadabam’s: Experts in Autism and paediatric Sleep

Meet Our Dedicated Professionals Supporting Your Child’s Sleep and Development

At Cadabam’s Child Development centre, addressing the complexities of Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children is a collaborative effort. Our multidisciplinary team comprises dedicated professionals, each bringing specialised expertise to ensure comprehensive care for your child.

Child Psychologists & behavioural Therapists

Our Child Psychologists and behavioural Therapists are pivotal in understanding and treating the behavioural aspects of sleep disorders in autistic children. They conduct detailed assessments to identify behavioural patterns contributing to sleep difficulties, such as bedtime resistance or anxiety around sleep. Their primary role involves designing and implementing evidence-based behavioural interventions for sleep problems in autistic children, including creating structured routines, teaching relaxation techniques, and guiding parents through strategies like graduated extinction. They are key in addressing the co-morbidity of anxiety and sleep issues.

Speech-Language Pathologists

Communication challenges are common in autism and can indirectly impact sleep. Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) at Cadabam’s work to improve a child's ability to express needs, discomfort, or fears related to bedtime. For example, an SLP might help a non-verbal child use an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system to communicate why they are having trouble sleeping. Enhancing communication can reduce frustration and anxiety, making bedtime routines smoother.

Refer to: Speech and language development at Cadabam’s

Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapists (OTs) at Cadabam’s are experts in sensory integration and play a crucial role in addressing the impact of sensory processing on sleep in autistic children. They assess how a child processes sensory information from their environment (touch, sound, light, movement) and how this impacts their ability to calm down and prepare for sleep. OTs design sensory diets, recommend environmental modifications for the bedroom, and suggest specific activities or tools (e.g., weighted blankets, specific bedding textures) to create a more sleep-conducive sensory experience.

Special Educators

Special Educators contribute by helping to establish consistent routines and develop visual supports for bedtime. They understand how to break down complex sequences into manageable steps, which is highly beneficial for autistic children who thrive on predictability. Visual schedules for the bedtime routine, social stories about sleep, or choice boards for calming pre-sleep activities are examples of tools special educators might help implement to support better sleep hygiene.

Consulting with a paediatric sleep specialist for autism spectrum disorder

For highly complex cases, or when medical sleep disorders like severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea or narcolepsy are suspected, Cadabam’s collaborates closely with or refers to external paediatric sleep specialist for autism spectrum disorder. These medical doctors have advanced training in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders, including interpreting polysomnography (sleep studies) and managing advanced medical treatments. This ensures that children receive the most specialised care needed for their specific sleep issues, particularly when considering the nuanced presentation in ASD.

Child Psychiatrists & paediatric Neurologists (if applicable)

When underlying medical or psychiatric conditions significantly contribute to sleep problems, or when medication is being considered, our consulting Child Psychiatrists and paediatric Neurologists provide essential expertise. They conduct thorough medical assessments, diagnose co-occurring conditions that might impact sleep (e.g., severe anxiety, ADHD, epilepsy), and manage psychopharmacological interventions like melatonin or other medications, always in careful coordination with the behavioural and therapeutic team.

- Expert Quote 1: From a Cadabam’s Child Psychologist “Understanding the interplay between a child's autistic traits and their sleep patterns is crucial. We don't just treat 'sleep'; we support the whole child within their unique neurodevelopmental profile.”

- Expert Quote 2: From a Cadabam’s Occupational Therapist “Many sleep challenges in autistic children are rooted in sensory sensitivities. Our goal is to create a calming sensory environment and strategies that prepare the child’s body and mind for restful sleep.”

Success Stories: Navigating Autism and Sleep Challenges

Real Life Impact: How Cadabam’s Helps Families Achieve Better Sleep

The journey of managing Autism vs Sleep Disorders in Children can be challenging, but with the right support, significant improvements are possible. At Cadabam’s Child Development centre, we witness firsthand the positive transformations that occur when families receive tailored, expert guidance.

Case Study 1 : The Journey of Aarav (6 years old)

Challenge: Aarav, a bright 6-year-old diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, experienced severe bedtime resistance, often taking 2-3 hours to fall asleep. He also had frequent night awakenings, leaving him and his parents exhausted. His daytime behaviour was characterised by increased irritability and difficulty concentrating in his special education classroom. His parents were concerned about the impact of sensory processing on sleep in autistic children as Aarav was very sensitive to noises and textures.

Cadabam’s Intervention: Aarav underwent a comprehensive assessment at Cadabam’s. The multidisciplinary team identified both behavioural components (sleep-onset associations with parental presence) and significant sensory sensitivities contributing to his sleep issues, a clear case of co-occurring autism and paediatric sleep disorders. His intervention plan included:

behavioural Interventions: A structured bedtime routine with a visual schedule was implemented. Gradual withdrawal of parental presence was initiated, alongside positive reinforcement for staying in his bed.
Sensory Integration Strategies: An Occupational Therapist worked with Aarav and his parents to create a sensory-friendly bedroom. This involved dimmer lighting, a white noise machine, specific bedding material, and a weighted blanket. A "sensory diet" with calming activities was introduced in the late afternoon.
Parent Training: Aarav's parents received coaching on consistently implementing the strategies and managing setbacks.

Outcome: Within six weeks, Aarav’s sleep-onset latency reduced to 20-30 minutes. His night awakenings decreased significantly. His parents reported a marked improvement in his daytime mood, attention, and overall engagement. Aarav also started expressing that he felt "more rested." The family felt empowered with strategies that addressed both his ASD needs and his sleep challenges.

Testimonial Snippet

"We struggled for years with our son's sleep. It felt like we had tried everything. The constant exhaustion was affecting our whole family. Cadabam's team was a lifesaver. They didn't just give us generic advice; they helped us understand the connection between his autism and his sleep patterns. The therapists taught us such practical behavioural interventions for autistic children and showed us how his sensory needs were playing a huge role. Now, bedtimes are peaceful, and he's actually sleeping through the night most nights. It’s made a world of difference for him and for us."