My kids won't fall asleep

[Tiredelf]

AuDHD twins age 8 with a PDA profile - one of them is still not asleep and it's bloody 10.50pm. We can't leave them to go to sleep on their own because they just won't fall asleep and one of them gets distressed due to trauma if they think they have been left alone (school trauma), which means me and dh basically get no time together. No family support whatsoever. Also they're home educated because school forced them out due to unmet needs.

How can i get them to go to sleep? I know about good sleep hygiene - it doesn't make a difference. if we can get them into bed earlier, they still don't fall asleep any earlier. Please help.

Have DTs tried any medication to aid sleep?

Are DTs on ADHD medication? If so, some find this has a knock on effect on sleep. For some, looking at the timings or changing the medication helps.

How much exercise are they getting during the day? How is their eating?

Do DTs share a bedroom?

Are they receiving any MH support?

If you want further support, you could request social care assessments. A carer’s assessment for you, and maybe DH, and assessments of DC’s needs. On their website, Contact has model letters you can use. Also look at your local short breaks offer.

If you no longer wish to EHE, you can request school places via the LA. If you don’t want to EHE and DC can’t attend school, the LA would still be responsible for education. You could also request EHCPs - IPSEA has a model letter on their website if you want to do this.

My DS has been getting worse the past few weeks with the build up to Christmas, struggling to eat, sleep and can’t leave the house. It’s really hard to manage. Can’t imagine how hard for you with twins. So hard not getting time to decompress in the evening