Do Autistic Toddlers Nap Differently?

PostedNovember 5, 2025

UpdatedNovember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, napping in autistic toddlers can be different compared to neurotypical children. Many toddlers with autism experience variations in sleep patterns, often leading to irregular naps or difficulties in establishing a consistent sleep schedule. This can be due to sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation challenges, or anxiety that affects their ability to settle down for naps.

Research supports this, with a study published in Autism Research finding that up to 50% of toddlers with autism experience sleep disturbances, including irregular nap times and sleep fragmentation. These disruptions are often linked to the sensory sensitivities and heightened stress levels common in children with autism, making it harder for them to establish a consistent sleep routine.

How Napping in Autistic Toddlers Manifests

Common napping habits in toddlers with autism:

Inconsistent Nap Times:

Autism traits such as difficulty with routine or sensory overload can cause napping in autistic toddlers to be unpredictable, often resulting in irregular nap times or difficulty falling asleep during the day.

Longer or Shorter Naps:

Some toddlers may nap for extended periods to cope with sensory fatigue, while others may take shorter naps or resist napping altogether, affecting their daily routine.

Difficulty Transitioning to Sleep:

Due to their unique sensory processing, toddlers with autism may have trouble transitioning from awake to sleep, leading to disruptions in nap schedules.

Understanding napping in autistic toddlers and how it relates to sleep patterns can help parents adjust their child’s daily routine to improve rest and behaviour. For expert advice and personalised consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect for tailored support specific to your child’s needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Early Signs & Symptoms of Autism.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.