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

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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