Sometimes, it can be tough for children with autism to manage behaviors. While many parents may refer to these meltdowns as “temper tantrums,” the words are not synonymous. Autism meltdowns are much bigger, more emotional, and more challenging to manage than your average temper tantrum.

These meltdowns are signs of distress and often have warning signs like hands over the ears or verbal pleas. If you’re having trouble calming down your child during these meltdowns, we’re here to help and support you through this journey. Here are five must-know strategies for calming an autism meltdown .

What Can Trigger These Meltdowns?

Autism meltdowns are an intense reaction to overwhelming situations or stress. These meltdowns can be triggered by changes in routines, loud noises, overcrowded spaces, or uncomfortable social interactions. Knowing what triggers your child’s meltdowns will help you calm them more quickly, and potentially prevent them.

Be Empathetic

Listen and acknowledge your child without judging or reprimanding them. Parents can best support their children by allowing them to express their emotions in healthy ways, whether through crying, journaling, art, or playing. Empathize with your child and validate their feelings so they feel loved and heard.

Give the Child Space

It’s natural to want to hug your child during these meltdowns, but it’s best to give them space. When you hug children during meltdowns, some may feel restricted, which can cause more stress. Unless your child is causing harm to themselves or others, give them space and observe without being too intrusive.

Have a Calm Down Routine

Implementing a routine is a great and effective way to calm down an autism meltdown . When your child starts to have a meltdown, give them a sensory toy or item, like a weighted blanket, that would help them relax. Prepare a series of objects or activities you can do that will calm them down every time.

Try Singing Songs or Counting

When your child is anxious or stressed, start singing their favorite songs or counting the numbers in a singing tone. Whenever we’re stressed, we may turn to music or our favorite show to help us cheer up; it’s the same for children! Sing their favorite song to help calm them. It may take a few songs, but it will help.

Have Sensory Tools on Standby

Keep a few sensory toys or tools in your bag or car just in case your child has a meltdown. Whenever your child is overwhelmed, you can offer them sensory toys to relax their mind. It’s important not to force these items upon the child having a meltdown because that can stress them even more.

Tools like a water bottle with marbles, fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, and sunglasses are a few things that can help calm down an autism meltdown.

HANDS Center for Autism wants to support the parents in every way possible. We offer ABA therapy training for parents to help parents be the best support to their children. We offer strategies and advice to parents who have children with autism about how their children can succeed behaviorally, socially, and academically.