What’s the connection between autism and sleep?

For many people with autism, a good night’s sleep is an elusive thing.

By Rebecca Horne
20 January 2020 | 4 min watch
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Animation by Lottie Kingslake; script by Emma Bryce

This article is more than five years old.

Neuroscience—and science in general—is constantly evolving, so older articles may contain information or theories that have been reevaluated since their original publication date.

For many people with autism, a good night’s sleep is an elusive thing. As much as 86 percent of children on the spectrum experience disrupted sleep, which can leave them feeling out of sync with the rest of the world. This video explores the connection between autism and sleep, and offers steps autistic people can take to feel more rested.

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