![]() It’s therefore no surprise many autistic people say a new environment can lead to a meltdown. ![]() It’s a change in routine, may be full of new people, can cause overwhelming anxiety and might require communication with new people who may not understand neurodiversity. There are perhaps several ways a new environment can trigger a meltdown. ![]() To many people, too loud, too busy, way too much noise. I have a PECS board and an emotion board for when I have a meltdown because I become mute in a meltdown. cameronparkĪny loud noise or weird smell or if I get too excited. Trigger wise it’s all over the place from any loud sound to something disturbs or startles me. Noise, too many people, and I think the worst one for me is mess. Loud sounds are also often found in places that are busy, chaotic and full of people, which can increase overstimulation in the moment. While you may have a sensitivity to a variety of things you can see, hear, smell, taste or touch, loud sounds and places with too much noise can be especially dysregulating. Sensory sensitivity is common among people on the spectrum - it’s overwhelming to be bombarded with too much input from the world around you. Mostly just change within my routine, or just unexpected things happening, new places like visiting a city or place for the first time, conversation with strangers, it goes that far that I’m literally not able to order food at McDonalds. When something doesn’t go the way I planned. ![]() Also, don’t try to get in the way of my routines I will turn you down. Don’t be upset if I don’t go to your long distance event. … Understand that long distance travel is dysregulating for me and I need structure and routine. However, the disruption from a change in routine can seem magnified and for some, lead to a meltdown.Ĭhanges in my routines. Of course, sometimes things don’t go as planned, which can be stressful. While there are some truly spontaneous people out there, most of us feel most comfortable when we stick to a routine so we know what to expect. These things can all help to distract your child in a stressful situation or to calm them down during a meltdown.Īpril is Autism Awareness Month.These were some of their responses: 1. Put together a well-stocked kit to keep with you at all times! Fill it with things like your child’s favorite toy, noise cancelling headphones, weighted blanket, stress ball and calming aromatherapy oils. Wrapping in a weighted blanket, massaging, and firm hugs are all ways of applying deep pressure and helps him or her become more aware of their body and reduce anxiety. Apply pressureĪpplying deep pressure helps rid the body of muscle tension and helps children with autism feel calm and relaxed. Using deep breathing techniques gives your child something to focus on and helps them to ignore stimuli. Practice slow, deep breathing when your child is calm, so that when a meltdown occurs your child will know how to use these techniques to calm him or herself. It is best to move as slowly as possible and talk in a soft, calm voice. When a meltdown occurs, try to stay calm take deep breaths and assess the situation. If you become stressed or upset, this will only make the situation worse and harder to calm your child down. ![]() It is important for you to remain calm during a meltdown, as his or her behavior is likely to trigger emotions in you. Having a routine and knowing what to expect will reduce stress and anxiety. Minimize introducing too many new activities or changes to their daily routines. If you are going to introduce a new activity, talk your child through the activity first and let them know step by step what will happen. Identifying what triggers your child will help you to avoid some meltdowns and also help you recognize the warning signs when they occur.Įstablishing a routine for children with autism is crucial they like knowing what to expect and it helps to keep them from worrying about what will come next. One of the best things you can do to reduce stress is to be prepared for whatever stressful situations might come your way. It is important to understand that every child is different and techniques that work for some may not work for you, keep trying different approaches and you will find what works best for your child. Meltdowns can be quite scary for both you and your child, but learning what calming techniques work best for your child can greatly help to calm them during a meltdown and hopefully prevent some from happening. Parenting children with Autism can be exceptionally challenging at times, especially during a meltdown. Calming Techniques for Children with Autism ![]()
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