The many challenges that come along with Autism Spectrum Disorder may include sleep issues. These happen in children of all ages and involve concerns such as trouble
falling asleep, waking up throughout the night, sleep apnea, less restorative sleep, and trouble establishing sleep routines. These issues can impact a child’s physical and mental health. They may experience increased irritability, hyperactivity, or aggression. Sleep issues can also negatively impact the rest of the household if parents or other members of the family find their sleep affected as well.
It is estimated that between 40 and 80% of children with autism have sleep struggles. There are two different suspected reasons why this is the case. Some children with
autism seem to have little or no tryptophan in their bodies—this is the amino acid responsible for the production and release of melatonin. Melatonin, in turn, helps
regulate one’s sleep cycle. Another suspected reason has to do with overstimulation. Many children with autism endure being overstimulated throughout their day, and some have a very hard time winding down at bedtime. They may remain stimulated far longer than their neurotypical peers and experience sleep issues as a result.
Positive Reinforcement not only offers children ABA therapy services for North Virginia, West Virginia including cities like Glen Allen Virginia, Winchester Virginia, and in home Aba Therapy Richmond Virginia. .