My child has meltdowns what can I do? Top 4 Autism meltdown tips

1 . DON'T overreact. All behaviors happen for a reason and if behaviors are getting worse they are probably being reinforced in some way. If a child on the spectrum has many meltdowns and the responses from others is the same, they may possibly be getting exactly what they want. To respond to a meltdown try not to overreact or get emotional. Remain calm and assist your child in a helpful way.

2 . Praise and provide reinforcement for your autistic child's behavior in between meltdowns. Example: I'd always provide this tip to teachers in the classroom. If a child has had 30 mins of appropriate behavior and gets no praise, reinforcement, or attention this may trigger a meltdown in a child with a meltdown history. Typically as soon as they have a meltdown or behavior issues they receive lots of attention and sometimes even reinforcement so what may happen in the future? They'll probably have an increase in meltdowns. If the child receives praise, reinforcement, and attention for not having a meltdown you may be able to increase the time between meltdowns which is the goal. Don't wait for your child to have a meltdown but instead reinforce and praise them not having meltdowns.

3. Recognize the triggers for your autistic childs meltdowns and prepare to modify the trigger. Example: If you notice your child typically has had meltdowns when in loud environments, then you may have sound reduction headphones ready when going into loud places. Example 2. If you notice that going to the toy department or candy department triggers meltdowns, you may intentionally go to a specific store and avoid that section and/or provide the item they want before going into the store. Give small amount of the candy or have them bring a toy along so they won't seek it in the store.

4. Promote communication instead of behavior. If your Autistic child has a meltdown and is not communicating their needs but only showing behaviors. attempt to get the child to communicate prior to fixing their problem or calming them. This is very different in all situations and be sure to seek assistance with this from trained Autism treatment professionals. Example: your autistic child is having a meltdown because their electronic device isn't functioning properly. Attempt to have the child say tablet , phone, or point to picture of the devices (PECS) then after that attempt to help them. This is to encourage that communicating their problem is how you can help them and not just responding to the meltdown.