May 01, 2025

Episode 87: Neurodivergent Children: Sleep, Sensory Needs, and the Right Support with Lauren Sloan

42 minutes

Episode 87: Neurodivergent Children: Sleep, Sensory Needs, and the Right Support with Lauren Sloan

What does it mean to support neurodivergent children in a world that doesn’t always understand their unique needs? This week on No One Told Us, Rachael is joined by registered nurse and sleep specialist (not to mention mom of 3!) Lauren Sloan to talk about her experiences parenting three neurodivergent boys—and why typical advice about sleep, routines, and behavior often falls short.

We’re digging deep into the realities of raising neurodivergent kids—how sensory processing impacts sleep, why traditional sleep training can be risky, and why parents need flexibility, compassion, and the right resources to truly support their children. Lauren brings her professional expertise and personal stories to topics like bedtime routines, feeding challenges, sleep struggles, and the power of understanding your child’s sensory world.

Inside this episode…

Lauren’s personal journey raising three neurodivergent boys

Why sensory processing is crucial for understanding sleep challenges in all children

How “stimming” is a natural, important way kids regulate themselves

Why one-size-fits-all sleep training methods can backfire for ND and Autistic children

How sensory needs impact bedtime routines and feeding transitions

Sensory techniques and tools that can help calm kids down at bedtime

The potential risks of things like reward charts and rigid routines for neurodivergent children

How parents can self-refer and seek the right support early on

The emotional toll of parenting when systems don’t fit your child—and how to find validation and help

Plus so much more!

Mentioned in this episode:

Lauren’s Instagram: @spiritedbabysleep

Substack: Spirited Baby Sleep – spiritedbabysleep.substack.com

Where to Start: Finding Support: https://spiritedbabysleep.myflodesk.com/aogt5sf52c

My Baby Hates the Car Seat: https://spiritedbabysleep.myflodesk.com/r6t6g0ndw6

Early Neurodiversity Course: https://spiritedbabysleep.thrivecart.com/early-neurodiversity/

Lauren’s Recommended Resources:

Parents as Teachers

Lesson Pix

Twinkl

Learning Corner

Books:

The out of sync child has fun

The Pocket Guide to Neurodiversity

Sincerely Your Autistic Child

NeuroTribes

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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By Rachael Shepard-Ohta

4.8

564564 ratings