Helping Children with Sensory Processing Disorder Get Better Sleep

Sleep is an important part of any healthy lifestyle, especially for children. Unfortunately, children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) often struggle to get the restful sleep they need in order to function optimally in the day. SPD is characterized by difficulty processing sensory information, making it difficult for those diagnosed to process sensory stimuli that are typically harmless yet overwhelming and bothersome. While there is no “cure” for SPD, there are effective ways to manage it to help children get the sleep they need.

These ways can be divided into two categories: home remedies and medical approaches. Home remedies take into account the comfort levels of individual children and can often work well to improve nighttime sleep. Medical approaches, such as medication, may also be recommended by a physician or mental health professional. Since every child is unique, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which approach is best for the specific child.

It is also important to note that bedtime routines often play an important role in helping children with SPD get the sleep they need. Creating a regular bedtime routine and sticking to it can help make bedtime feel predictable and safe for anyone with SPD.

Home Remedies

There are many simple home remedies that can help children with SPD get better sleep. These include creating a comfortable sleeping environment, using white noise machines, avoiding caffeine before bedtime, using sleep aids such as melatonin, and relaxing bedtime activities such as reading or listening to calming music. Parents should also consider reducing exposure to screens before bed, as children with SPD may be sensitive to high levels of stimulation from electronics.

At the same time, parents should also be aware of their own behaviors and mannerisms in order to set a good example for their children. Keeping a regular, calm bedtime routine and avoiding harsh tones or unnecessary stress can go a long way in helping children with SPD relax and get better restful sleep.

Using White Noise Machines

White noise machines are an effective tool for helping children with SPD by providing a steady, soothing background sound that can help to reduce the impact of other auditory disturbances. These machines have been shown to be effective in helping children destress and drift off into a restful sleep.

For added benefit, parents can also find machines that allow them to customize the sound to match the exact volume and frequency that their child prefers. This can allow children to identify the sound more readily, making them more relaxed and comfortable while they drift off into sleep.

To further ensure that children with SPD get the rest they need, parents can experiment with different white noise options to determine which one works best for the individual child.

Relaxation Strategies

Many parents of children with SPD also find success with implementing relaxation strategies such as:

• Massage
• Meditation
• Yoga
• Deep breathing
• Guided imagery

These relaxation strategies can go a long way in helping children with SPD become more calm and relaxed prior to going to sleep. Not only is this beneficial for their health and wellbeing, but it can help improve the overall atmosphere of the household by reducing stress and anxiety.

Conclusion

While there is no “cure” for Sensory Processing Disorder, there are many effective ways to help children with SPD get better sleep. These include home remedies such as creating a comfortable sleeping environment and using white noise machines, as well as medical approaches such as medication and relaxation strategies. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which approach is best for the specific child.