FAMILY SNAPSHOT:
Shared by a parent in Dr. Roseann’s community
Parent: Rita
Child: Sienna, age 11
Core struggle: Nighttime panic that escalated with talking and reassurance moments.al outbursts before bed.
🔍 The Pattern (Before)
- Panic rising as bedtime approached
- Crying, rapid breathing, and fear of being alone
- Reassurance and talking made anxiety worse
- Long bedtime battles leaving everyone exhausted
- Sienna unable to settle her body or mind
💡 What Rita Tried Instead:
A Sensory-First Path to Better Sleep
- Introduced a weighted blanket for deep pressure
- Added a simple rhythm-breathing routine with a “breathing buddy”
- Reduced verbal input and used soft, predictable cues
- Rolled a yoga ball along Sienna’s back for proprioceptive calming
- Built a consistent, sensory-friendly bedtime rhythm
