Do Children with Autism Struggle with Bedtime?

PostedNovember 5, 2025

UpdatedNovember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Yes, bedtime struggles in autism are common and often linked to sensory sensitivities and emotional regulation challenges. Many children with autism have difficulty with sleep routines, leading to delays in falling asleep, frequent night wakings, or resistance to bedtime. These struggles are typically rooted in the child’s need for consistency, comfort, and control.

Children with autism may be sensitive to the sensory aspects of bedtime, such as the feel of the bed, lighting, or noise. Additionally, anxiety or overstimulation during the day can make it harder for them to wind down, leading to disruptive night-time behaviour.

How Bedtime Struggles in Autism Manifest

Common signs of bedtime struggle in autism include the following:

Difficulty Settling Down:

Children with autism may have trouble relaxing at night, especially if there are sensory elements, such as uncomfortable bedding or noises, that interfere with their ability to fall asleep.

Resistance to Bedtime:

Some children with autism may actively resist going to bed, often due to anxiety about the night or discomfort with changes in routine.

Frequent Night Wakings:

Children may wake up several times during the night, often due to difficulty self-soothing or sensory issues that disrupt their sleep.

Recognising bedtime struggles in autism as part of autism symptoms is important for helping parents implement effective sleep strategies. Consistency in sleep routines, creating a calming environment, and addressing any underlying sensory sensitivities can improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety at night. For expert advice and personalised consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect for one-on-one support tailored 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.