A large portion of children with ASD have trouble sleeping' whether that means falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting good quality sleep. So what are your non-pharmacological options to help your little one get the sleep they need to function on a day to day basis? Exercise!
Research actually
shows that a moderate amount of exercise every day can positively impact sleep
duration and quality compared to no exercise at all! Examples of specific
exercises that have shown this effect are basketball, swimming, jogging, and
structured group exercise classes. However, implementation of any structured physical activity can positively impact your
kiddo’s sleep.
So what exercise
is best for you child? Well the best exercise for your child to participate in
is something they truly
enjoy and are able to maintain on a daily
basis. Using your child’s interests will make it possible to
implement physical activity on a regular basis and maximize benefits on sleep.
Additionally, build this activity into your daily routine to ensure carry over
and continued interest.
On the other hand,
it is important to read your child
and ensure not to overwork
them because it also found that too much vigorous
exercise can have the opposite effect on sleep. Therefore, ensuring that your
child is having fun, taking breaks, and drinking plenty of water.
Ultimately, regular structured physical
activity can have a positive
effect on sleep
in children with Autism which helps with improved
regulation and energy to perform daily activities.
By Morgan Hamlett, DPT
