Helping children sleep.

How Special Educational Needs, Disabilities, and Anxiety Affect Children's Sleep – And How to Help

Sleep difficulties are incredibly common among children with special educational needs (SEN), disabilities, and anxiety, often leaving both them and their families exhausted. As a trained nurse, health visitor, safeguarding specialist, sleep consultant, and children's anxiety specialist, I understand the unique challenges these children face. The good news? Small changes can make a big difference.

Why Do Children with SEN, Disabilities, and Anxiety Struggle with Sleep?

Children with additional needs are more likely to experience:

• Difficulty falling asleep – Many struggle with winding down due to heightened sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or difficulty understanding bedtime routines.

• Frequent night wakings – Their sleep cycles can be more easily disrupted, leading to multiple wake-ups.

• Early waking – Some children wake very early and struggle to return to sleep.

• Increased anxiety – Worries about school, social situations, or changes in routine can make it harder to relax at bedtime.

• Sensory sensitivities – Noise, light, textures, and even certain pyjamas or bedding can impact comfort and sleep quality.

• Melatonin production differences – Some children, particularly those with neurodevelopmental conditions, may produce lower levels of melatonin, making it harder for them to feel naturally sleepy at night.

Simple Strategies to Improve Sleep

1. Establish a Predictable Routine
   Structure and consistency are key. A clear, calm, and predictable bedtime routine helps children with additional needs feel safe and prepared for sleep. Try using visual schedules or social stories to support understanding.

2. Create a Sensory-Friendly Sleep Space
   Minimise light and noise disturbances. Some children benefit from blackout blinds, weighted blankets, or white noise machines. Soft, seamless pyjamas and breathable bedding can also reduce discomfort.

3. Regulate Screen Time
   Blue light from screens suppresses melatonin, making sleep even harder. Aim to turn off devices at least an hour before bedtime and replace screens with calming activities such as reading or sensory play.

4. Support Relaxation
   Help your child wind down with calming techniques like deep pressure input (hugs or massage), slow rhythmic movement (rocking or swinging), or guided breathing exercises.

5. Consider Melatonin Supplementation
   Some children benefit from melatonin supplements, but these should always be discussed with a healthcare professional first.

6. Address Night Wakings with a Gentle Approach
   If your child wakes during the night, try to keep interactions calm and brief. Reassure them without encouraging wakefulness. Consider using a weighted blanket or a comfort object to help them resettle.

7. Manage Anxiety Around Sleep
   For children who experience nighttime fears or separation anxiety, a comfort item that smells like a parent, a nightlight, or a predictable phrase for reassurance can help.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

If your child struggles with sleep, you are not alone. As a specialist in sleep, SEN, and children's anxiety, I can help create a personalised sleep plan that works for your child and your family. Every child is unique, and together, we can find the right approach to help them (and you) get the rest you need.

Get in touch today to start making changes that will improve your child’s sleep—and your whole family’s wellbeing.

   [email protected]

07391501589

     https://www.vickyscott.sleepnanny.co.uk