There are a myriad of reasons why setting a bedtime with your kids can be a real challenge. But if your child has Sensory Processing Disorder, it gets even trickier. Itchy sheets, harsh air conditioning, scratchy pajamas—for kids with Sensory Processing Disorder, the list of things that can disrupt a good night’s sleep can be a long and complicated one.

The good news is: with a little trial and error, you and your child can develop a bedtime routine that eliminates distractions, soothes sensory overload, and ultimately helps you get a good night's sleep.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory processing disorder, also called SI disorder, is when a child has difficulty processing sensory input (information). Regulating sensory input is a challenge for people with SI disorder, who may experience undersensitivity, oversensitivity, or both.

Symptoms of SI disorder may include:

• Easy to arrange due to loud noises
• Disturbed by bright lights
• Strong reaction to odors
• Does not like physical contact such as hugs
• Difficulty falling asleep, waking up often
• Sensitive to different clothing materials, labels, seams, etc.
• Very picky about food textures and flavors

But SI disorder often disrupts sleep, leading to poor mornings and difficult days.

How does SI disorder affect sleep?

Children with sensory processing disorder may have a lot of trouble falling asleep, which can feel like an impossible task. Their sensitivity to light, sound, smells, and textures can keep them up all night, which can be frustrating for both parents and children.

It can be difficult to determine exactly what is causing your child’s sleep problems, because they often do not know what the problem is. It is therefore important to listen carefully to your child when they come out of their bedroom for the second, third or even fourth time. Are they too hot, do their clothes itch, or are they too tight? Things that may not bother you yourself can have a major impact on your child’s sleep.

Tips for Building a SI-Friendly Bedtime

If your child is having trouble sleeping, it’s important to investigate what factors might be causing distractions, stress, or interruptions. Walk around their bedroom at night and look for recurring noises, outside lights, drafts, and other potential distractions.

Then, review these items to see how they may affect your child's sleep patterns and use this information to develop a sleep routine that works for children with sensory processing issues.

Experiment with their pajamas

Wearing tight clothing for children with SI disorder can cause several problems. For example, the fabric can be coarse, the seams can itch or your child can overheat. Therefore, try a soft, loose-fitting T-shirt as an alternative. Also check whether the seams on the inside of the garments can lead to discomfort for your child, by turning the clothing inside out.

Check their blankets and sheets

There are children who kick their sheets and blankets off their bed every night. In that case, you may consider removing them and using only a thin, lightweight blanket. On the other hand, there are children who benefit from a sensory sleep tunnel , which provides deep pressure therapy all night long and promotes sleep. Want to know more about how the sensory sleep tunnel can help your child? Click here!

Play with their lighting

Some children need complete darkness to fall asleep and stay asleep. Even a little light shining under their door can send them tossing and turning. Other children need just the right amount of light and may benefit from a nightlight or a soothing light screen in their bedroom. Sometimes the ticking clock or voices from the TV downstairs can be the source of sleep problems, while for others it may be too quiet. Children with SI disorder may benefit from fans, white noise machines or peaceful nature sounds that help them relax and enter a peaceful dream state.

Conclusion: Sensory Processing Disorder and Sleep

For children with SI disorder, sleep can be a major issue, causing stress for both parents and children. Luckily, there is hope! Happy Kiddo offers support for your child’s sensory journey, with community feedback, helpful blogs, and sensory-friendly products for every stage. It may take some time to resolve your child’s sleep issues, but once you do, you and your child can get back to enjoying a great night’s sleep.