Autism, Sleep, and the Myths We Tell Ourselves
One of the most common conversations in parenting groups about autism is sleep. Posts about late nights, restless bodies, and long bedtime struggles appear daily — and often, the advice that follows is quick and absolute.
"Just ask for sleep medication."
"Autistic children don’t produce enough melatonin."
But here’s the truth: sleep is as unique as the child who’s experiencing it.
My son Jack, who in clinical terms would be labelled severely autistic and non-verbal, has slept through the night since around six months old. Not perfectly, of course — illness, growth spurts, or the wonder of multidimensional experiences or energetic shifts sometimes make for wakeful nights. But the idea that all autistic children are destined for poor sleep? It’s a myth that doesn’t honour their individuality.
When we lean into these broad, one-size-fits-all narratives, we risk overlooking what really matters: the environment, rhythms, sensory needs, and emotional landscape of each child.
💤 Some children find comfort in ritual.
💤 Some respond to reducing sensory stimulation before bedtime.
💤 Some, like Jack, simply have their own unique relationship with rest.
Instead of assuming “broken biology,” we might ask: What is my child trying to show me about their needs for safety, calm, and connection before sleep?
The conversation isn’t about medication or melatonin levels alone. It’s about seeing sleep as communication — another way our children show us how they relate to the world.
And maybe, just maybe, the shift begins when we stop looking for a universal answer and start listening differently.
✨ Reflection for Parents
What is one small change you’ve made that has supported your child’s sleep? Share below — your wisdom may be exactly what another parent needs to hear.
