Tips for Your Child Attending Sleepovers with Autism

Sleepovers can be tough for some children because it puts them into unfamiliar environments without their usual comforts. And for a child with autism, it’s a lot more difficult. But at the same time, sleepovers can be beneficial as it puts them into these situations from a young age and will inevitably help them grow.

But what can we do in the meantime to make sleepovers with autism a smoother process for everyone?

Try These Tips

• Comfort item – Let them take something from home, like a blanket or teddy. This will have a familiar smell and it will also just add some homely familiarity to their evening.
• Validate their feelings – If your child is scared before the big night, let them know that it’s okay. Don’t brush it off with something like “It’s just one night.” Perhaps try and identify the root of the feeling, and work together on resolving it.
• Prepare them – Perhaps have a practice run to get them familiar for what’s to come. Something like sleeping on the floor in the lounge with a blanket and some snacks. Get them familiar with the experience.
• Praise their efforts – Remind them that they’re “brave” and that they’re doing “such a good job”.

And Don’t Forget

Attending a sleepover can be daunting for any child. It’s an unfamiliar place without mom and dad there, and for a child with autism, this can be even more challenging. It may take a few tries before they become fully comfortable with it, but let them know that there’s no rush. Allow them to become comfortable at their own pace.

Assist them any way you can, because they’re doing their best.