Hi mamas,
My kiddo is a sensory seeker with high functioning autism. We nursed for quite a while, I did nurse to sleep. He sleeps in his own bed and has for a while, but he's always been a snuggler. Since we moved 5 months ago, I've been snuggling more than usual because of the change. I want to "wean" off the snuggle till he's asleep. I've done it before. But I also am trying to find ways to help him STAY asleep and not wake up at least once a night (which is common for these kiddos). I read something about tactile needs these kiddos have - just a passing sentence a mom wrote about her kid "pushing his hands" for contact - my son does that - loves to have his hands in contact with my cheek, neck, etc.
Has anyone had experience with this and how did you make progress with helping your sensory/spectrum kid sleep through the night? He's almost 6, and I would love more sleep. I'm sure he would, too.
Do you have a weighted blanket? it is like having a gentle hug all night long.
Find a good occupational therapist in the area that specializes in sensory and get yourself a catalog for kids w/ sensory.
A weighted blanket/vest, a dog, white noise... Sometimes texture can feel right or not right. I cannot tolerate some towels, blankets, clothes...
I have sensory and I was always a terrrible sleeper. People w/ sensory are always "on alert" and prone to sensory input that otheres ignore. I am so glad you are going to assist him. What your son is doing is not unusual. Things that can help with tactile are: Massage ( to the back or hands), weighted blankets/vests (I mentioned), a brushing program under the supervision of an OT...I used to love a warm blanket from the dryer rolled around me. To this day, I wear a snug fitting tank top to bed w/ many blankets...even in the summer. It neurological and has nothing to do w/ the temp outside for me.
Has he seen an Occupational therapist?
I am a parenting instructor and at times I have to send a child to a local OT who HAS the extra training in sensory integration dysfunction.
I have found that it is best to avoid tickling before bed at it a "light-touch" do just the opposite for tactile--and usually are not helpful.
So, yes, to answer your question...activities to improve the tactile sytem include deep pressure to promote calming. The activities I mentioned above decrease the activity of the protective system, allowing the discriminatory sys to function. You can also try "tracing" on his back. Spell his name using deep pressure---not to feel like tickling.
After dinner you can give him a squeeze ball. He can press it, roll it on the floor...
Keep us posted. I hope this information helps !
A lot of people, autistic or not, like to be hugging or touching something or someone. Find him something he likes. Some kids wake up during the night. It is what it is. He might never sleep through. Sorry.
What about him sleeping with a body pillow, or a large stuffed animal? Would that provide the snuggle for him?
My son has some of these issues and he sleeps with our dog. They cuddle all night long. Another idea is to take him to a Bed, Bath and Beyond type store and see if there are any blankets, throws etc, that might have a texture he'd gravitate to. I agree with the body pillows as well. Maybe some, or all, of this would work for him?
