Parenting an autistic child can be challenging at times. Autistic meltdowns can be one of the most difficult elements to manage.
What triggers autistic meltdowns?
Autistic meltdowns are an intense response to certain sensory or emotional triggers which overload the nervous system. The brain struggles to process the triggers, which results in the child losing behavioural control.
Meltdowns are different to tantrums in that the child becomes stuck temporarily in a fight, flight or freeze state of mind.
Meltdowns can be triggered by many things, including:
-sensory overload- e.g. bright lights, loud noises, strong smells or being uncomfortable
-disruptions to routines- changes to what usually happens in the child's daily routine, e.g. steps to get ready for school
-social or emotional overload- e.g. struggling to express themselves, being misunderstood by others, stressful social situations
-physical discomfort or pain- e.g. hunger, thirst, pain in the body
-frustration or anxiety.
What does an autistic meltdown look like?
Meltdowns are often expressed by children through physical actions, such as screaming and shouting, crying, hurting themselves, or hurting others.
However, some children internalise meltdowns, and become withdrawn. They might run away to be by themselves and become quiet.
How to calm an autistic meltdown
When a meltdown starts you can take the following steps:
-stay calm. By doing so you help your child to calm down too
-remember that they can't control this behaviour and aren't misbehaving
-make sure they are as safe as possible- remove any sharp objects
-avoid making any demands of them or raising your voice
-allow them time to calm down. Perhaps move to a calming or quieter space if possible
-give them time to recover afterwards.
Preventing meltdowns
Over time you can learn to identify the warning signs that a meltdown is coming. Watch for signs of anxiety or distress, including, rocking, pacing or becoming quiet. If you notice the signs you can avoid a meltdown by taking steps such as:
-providing fidget toys or a treasured cuddly animal
-going somewhere quiet with dimmed lights
-providing them with noise-cancelling headphones.
In the longer term you can prepare ahead of time for avoiding meltdowns by following some of these steps:
-tell them what's coming next in your day/ routine so they can mentally prepare
-stick to routines
-ensure your child gets enough sleep and good nutrition
-schedule quiet time/ down time throughout the day to avoid overwhelm
-provide a quiet, safe space they can retreat to when they need calm. A den made of blankets and cushions in their room would be ideal
-ensure fidget toys and calming items are always with you.
Our SEND resources contain helpful downloads for parents of autistic children. Alternatively, our autism guide provides helpful information.
