10 Bedtime Battles Every Autism Parent Knows Too Well!

If you’re parenting an autistic or sensory kid, bedtime is… well, let’s just say it’s not exactly a soothing spa experience. Think more WWE wrestling match meets hostage negotiation. Here are the top 10 battles I (and probably you) know way too well:

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1. The Pyjama Wars

Because apparently every single pair is “too itchy, too scratchy, too taggy, too everything.” Even the ones they loved yesterday.

2. The Toothbrush Stand-Off

You’d think brushing teeth was medieval torture the way the drama unfolds. Cue foam everywhere, including your eyebrows.

3. The Water Crisis

Not thirsty all day… but as soon as bedtime hits? They need 14 sips of water. Each one from a different cup. At a specific temperature.

4. The Stuffed Animal Uprising

Every plushie they’ve ever owned must be in the bed. Positioned correctly. And god help you if Teddy #7 is missing.

5. The Blanket Negotiations

“Too hot!” kicks it off → “Too cold!” demands it back. Repeat. Forever.

6. The Sensory Checkpoint

Seams checked, tags cut, socks rejected, sheets sniffed. Only when all conditions are met will sleep negotiations proceed.

7. The Nightlight Saga

One night it’s too dark. The next it’s too bright. Then it must be blue. But not that blue. You’re now a certified lighting engineer.

8. The “One More” Requests

One more story. One more song. One more snack. One more existential question about dinosaurs. One more reason you’re still awake at midnight.

9. The Escape Artist

Bedtime starts in their bed, but somehow ends with them starfished across yours, snoring like a baby walrus.

10. The “Finally Asleep” Paradox

You tiptoe out like a ninja, hold your breath, and then… creak. They’re awake again. And so the cycle begins.

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💫 Final Thought

Bedtime with sensory kids is chaos wrapped in love. Some nights are rough, some are hilarious, and some end with you asleep on the floor holding a half-eaten biscuit. But you’re not alone — every parent in this boat is rowing (and yawning) right alongside you.

What mental things have you had to deal with? xxx