Sleep support and strategies for families of children with SEND needs.

Sleep is essential for physical and emotional wellbeing, especially for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Common Sleep Issues in Children and Young People

Children and young people may experience a variety of sleep difficulties that can affect their overall wellbeing, development, and daily functioning. These issues can be particularly pronounced in those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), where neurodevelopmental differences, anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or medical conditions may contribute to disrupted sleep patterns.

Typical sleep problems include:

Difficulty falling asleep: This may be due to anxiety, overstimulation before bedtime, or an inability to wind down. Children with autism or ADHD often struggle with transitions and calming routines, making it harder to settle at night.
Frequent night waking: Some children wake multiple times during the night and may need support to return to sleep. This can be linked to sensory processing issues, nightmares, or medical conditions such as sleep apnea.
Early morning waking: Waking very early and being unable to return to sleep can lead to fatigue and irritability during the day. This is common in children with disrupted circadian rhythms or heightened sensory alertness.
Night terrors or nightmares: These can be distressing for both the child and their family. Night terrors typically occur in the first few hours of sleep and may involve intense fear without full awakening. Nightmares, on the other hand, are vivid and often remembered, and may be linked to trauma, anxiety, or emotional stress.
Sleepwalking: This is more common in younger children and may be exacerbated by stress, fatigue, or certain medications. While usually harmless, it can pose safety risks and may require environmental adjustments.
Resistance to bedtime routines: Children may refuse to go to bed or struggle with transitions into sleep. This resistance can stem from anxiety, sensory discomfort (e.g., pajamas, bedding), or a lack of consistent routine.

Impact on Children with SEND

Sleep difficulties in children with SEND can have a significant impact on:

Behaviour: Poor sleep can lead to increased irritability, hyperactivity, emotional dysregulation, and aggression.
Learning: Fatigue affects concentration, memory, and cognitive processing, which can hinder academic progress.
Family wellbeing: Disrupted sleep affects the whole household, leading to parental stress, sleep deprivation, and strained relationships.

Sleep Tips and Techniques

Use a consistent, calming sequence of activities (e.g. bath, story, music).

Visual schedules and low lighting can help.

Include relaxing activities like quiet play, stories, or soft music.

Avoid screens and bright lights before bed.

Keep the room dark or use red-based night lights.

Minimize distractions and ensure comfort (e.g. bedding, temperature, noise).

Encourage independent sleep cues (e.g. soft music, comfort items).

Avoid associations that require a parent (e.g. rocking, feeding).

Introduce a teddy, blanket, or parent’s clothing as a sleep aid.

Gradually build attachment to the object during the day.

Slowly reduce your presence at bedtime (e.g. move chair further away each night).

Can also be used to wean off items like bottles.

Gradually shift bedtime earlier by 15-minute increments.

Use bright light in the morning to help reset the body clock.

Delay bedtime by 3 hours each day until a desired sleep time is reached.

Best done during school holidays.

Use positive reinforcement (e.g. sticker charts, praise) for good sleep habits.

Choose rewards that motivate your child.

Gradually shorten naps if they interfere with night sleep.

Keep nap times consistent and inform school if needed.

Support Available

Dudley families can access sleep support through:

Health Visiting Team (0–5 years)

For younger children, Dudley’s Health Visiting Team offers:

Support with establishing sleep routines
Advice on sleep safety and environment
Referrals to specialist services if needed

Cerebra Sleep Advice Service

Cerebra offers a free, specialist sleep advice service for families. Their support includes:

Tailored sleep plans
One-to-one consultations
Advice on bedtime routines and sleep hygiene
Resources and guides for parents

The Sleep Charity

The Sleep Charity provides free, expert advice and practical tools to help families improve sleep. Their support includes:

Downloadable advice sheets tailored for children, young people, and those with SEND
Guidance on bedtime routines, relaxation techniques, and creating an ideal sleep environment
Resources on managing nightmares, diet and sleep, and specialist sleep equipment
Free eBooks and printable checklists for parents and carers