Buzz
Children with autism often become agitated by everyday experiences such as physical touch, sensitivity to sound, and light. Unexpected changes or disruptions in their daily routines can also lead to feelings of stress and frustration. Because children with autism often struggle to express their experiences, they may have intense outbursts, sometimes referred to as meltdowns. During these episodes, they might scream, thrash around, break objects, or even react aggressively toward others. Since children with autism are prone to agitation, it is crucial for parents to learn effective calming techniques. Each child is unique, so experimenting with different methods is essential to find the best approach for your child.
Steps
Preventing and Managing Meltdowns
Identify the triggers that cause meltdowns. Understanding these triggers can help you keep your child away from situations that may upset them. This is crucial in calming a child with autism. Observe your child and try to pinpoint the causes of certain behaviors. If parents or caregivers know what triggers a meltdown, they can take steps to avoid it.
- Keeping a journal of common triggers can help you prevent future outbursts. You might also consider using a smartphone app to track meltdowns and their causes.
- Common triggers for meltdowns in children with autism include changes or disruptions in routines, overstimulation, frustration, and communication difficulties.
- A meltdown is different from a tantrum. Tantrums are purposeful, like the peak of a competitive game, and they stop when you give in. Meltdowns occur when a person with autism feels so overwhelmed that they lose control, appearing helpless and unable to stop until the episode passes.
Follow a routine. When children adhere to a routine, they can predict what comes next, which helps them stay calm.
- Visual schedules can help children clearly see their daily or weekly routines.
- If you know there will be changes affecting the child's routine on a particular day, ensure you have time to prepare them. Inform the child in advance and communicate changes clearly and patiently.
- When introducing a child to a new environment, the best time is when there are fewer stimuli. This means taking the child to quieter or less crowded places.
Communicate clearly with the child. Many children with autism feel frustrated when they struggle with verbal communication. Speak to them patiently, sensitively, and with clear pronunciation.
- Avoid yelling or using an aggressive tone, as this can worsen the child's outbursts.
- If verbal communication is challenging, try using images or other forms of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
- Remember that communication is a two-way process. Always listen to the child and make it clear that you value and respect what they say. Ask for clarification if needed to prevent frustration and meltdowns.
Distract the child if you suspect emotional or psychological triggers. When a child is upset, you can sometimes calm them by diverting their attention. Try enthusiastically playing with their favorite toy, watching a movie, or listening to their favorite song. If possible, engage in activities related to their special interests.
- Distraction strategies don't always work. For example, asking about their favorite rock collection might help them forget their fear during a flu shot, but it won't help if they're upset about a dress seam resembling fire ants on their skin.
- Once the child calms down, talk to them about what caused their anger or agitation. Ask what happened and work together to find ways to prevent it from recurring.
Change the child's environment. Children often become upset because they are overly sensitive and easily overstimulated. When this happens, it's a good idea to move them to a different environment or modify the current one (e.g., turning off loud music) to reduce stimulation.
- For example, if fluorescent lights bother the child, consider changing the room's lighting instead of forcing them to endure it.
- If the child is in a place where the environment cannot be easily changed, take precautions. For instance, provide sunglasses (to reduce light sensitivity) or use earplugs in public (to limit noise). Also, consider other preventive measures for the child.
Give the child personal space. Sometimes, children just need time before they're ready to re-engage. Allow them to sit quietly in a low-sensory environment to calm down.
- Always prioritize safety. Never leave young children unsupervised or lock them in a room. Ensure they are safe and can leave if they want to.
Discuss the meltdown with the child afterward. Use a solution-focused approach: instead of blaming or punishing the child, talk to them to find ways to prevent future meltdowns or better cope with their stress. Consider discussing:
- What the child believes caused the meltdown (listen patiently to their perspective).
- How to avoid similar situations in the future.
- More effective problem-solving strategies (taking breaks, counting, deep breathing, asking for space, etc.).
- An exit plan to end potential future outbursts.
Calming a Child with Deep Pressure Therapy
Apply deep pressure techniques. Children with autism often experience sensory processing differences, which can cause stress or even pain. Deep pressure helps relax their muscles.
- Try wrapping the child comfortably in a blanket or placing weighted blankets across their body. The weight provides soothing pressure, but ensure the child's face remains uncovered to avoid breathing difficulties.
- You can purchase specialized deep pressure tools online or make your own. Weighted blankets, toys, vests, and lap pads are all effective options.
Massage the child using deep pressure methods. When applying deep pressure, massage is an excellent way to interact with the child, strengthening the parent-child bond. Place the child between your legs. Cup your hands over their shoulders and apply gentle pressure. Slowly move your hands along their arms and shoulders.
- If you're unsure, seek advice from a professional masseuse or someone skilled in back massage.
Try using a pressure pillow. This method involves placing the child on a soft surface like a pillow or cushioned chair. Let them relax lying down or sitting, then use a second pillow or cushion to apply gentle, rhythmic deep pressure to their upper body, arms, and legs.
- Never cover the child's face to prevent any risk of sudden suffocation.
Calming a Child with Vestibular Stimulation Exercises
Understand how to use vestibular stimulation exercises. The vestibular system plays a key role in balance and spatial orientation. Vestibular exercises involving swinging and bouncing motions can help calm the child.
- Repetitive movements soothe the child and shift their focus to bodily sensations.
Use a swing. Place the child on a swing and gently push them. Adjust the speed, slowing down or speeding up, until the child calms down. If swinging seems to worsen the situation, stop immediately.
- Having an indoor swing can be a great way to incorporate this method effectively. The child can use it regardless of weather conditions.
- Some children may prefer to swing independently. In such cases, gently encourage them to do so.
Spin the child on a chair. Spinning is a vestibular stimulation exercise. This activity can help prevent meltdowns by distracting the child from stressors and redirecting their attention to bodily sensations.
- Office chairs are often ideal as they spin easily.
- Ensure the child sits still and spin the chair slowly to avoid injury.
- The child can choose to keep their eyes open or closed during the activity.
Tips
- Engage with children using a calm and gentle tone of voice.
- Acknowledge and address your own feelings of frustration to avoid displaying them in front of the child.
- Regularly communicate with teachers and caregivers to ensure the child receives appropriate attention and care.
Warning
- If you are concerned that the child might harm themselves or others, or if you feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to proceed, seek assistance from a caregiver.
- Approach the child cautiously if they are thrashing or throwing objects, or if they seem cornered. They might unexpectedly cause injury.
