Challenging moments like disappointment, injuries, tantrums, and meltdowns are part of the natural course of childhood for all kids. For parents of autistic children, a public meltdown can be uniquely challenging, requiring more resources and strategies for remedying the situation.
The key to handling these situations is to recognize the signs before they occur, allowing parents to be properly prepared when those difficult moments arise. Patience and education are two more critical tools for a parent's toolset.
It's important to recognize that an autism meltdown is not a choice. Empathy opens the door to accepting more tools for prevention and de-escalation.
Take note of the following tips for assisting parents and children during challenging situations.
It's not uncommon to conflate meltdowns with tantrums, as it can be difficult to distinguish between the two. Plus, a tantrum can also be the result of an underlying behavioral or physical issue that warrants closer inspection from a medical professional.
The first step in managing an autism meltdown is to recognize the difference between these two challenges.
In general, tantrums are often interpreted as brief expressions of a particular emotion, such as anger or frustration. They may also be the result of emotional overload or overstimulation. Tantrums may arise from hunger or dehydration, as well as environmental disruptions like changes in family dynamics or moving to a new home.
An autism meltdown can be more intense, often resulting from emotional distress. Meltdown triggers may include:
Emotional overload or overstimulation
Disruptions in routine
Unexpected events
Physical discomfort
Autism-related anxiety
Children who experience autism meltdowns may feel like their world is spinning out of control. They may become irrational, have trouble communicating, or find themselves unable to stop the escalation.
For parents of children with autism, education is always the first line of defense. This includes consulting medical professionals on best practices.
Packing an emergency kit for public outings is also an invaluable tip. An emergency bag should include items for managing sensory needs.
For example, keeping children engaged with sensory fidget toys can prevent overstimulation and emotional distress, two primary triggers for meltdowns. These toys can work at the first sign of a meltdown, diverting a child's attention away from the emotional distress.
Weighted blankets can help calm autistic children during plane flights and car rides. They can be helpful when going out to dinner or spending time at public attractions.
Noise-canceling headphones are also must-haves for a meltdown emergency kit. Other essentials include sunglasses, favorite stuffed animals, water bottles, and snacks to prevent hunger-related meltdowns.
Disruptions in routine are also triggers for meltdowns. Parents can reduce anxiety by maintaining predictability.
Consistently incorporating visual aids in routines can help children process and prepare for outings. Keeping a visual schedule of all the week's (or month's) activities can help children anticipate what's next. Integrate icons or pictures of grocery stores, museums, malls, doctors' offices, and so forth.
Use arrows in between pictures to illustrate the sequence of events. For example, after breakfast, place an arrow between a stack of pancakes and the next activity, "going to the park," as illustrated by a patch of grass.
Include descriptions of events. For example, if there's an upcoming doctor's appointment, describe the purpose in a few short sentences.
Leverage the brain's natural reward system by using a visual "First-Then" illustration. This approach allows children to engage in a preferred activity after engaging in a less desirable activity, like going to an appointment.
With the right toolkit, parents can transform a potential meltdown into a manageable situation or even prevent one altogether by identifying signs and keeping an emergency kit handy. Incorporating a visual schedule also makes a world of difference.
Talk to a medical professional about applying these strategies for effective meltdown management.
