If you’re a parent or teacher of a child or teen with autism you’ve probably witnessed many sesnory meltdowns and temper tantrums? But, do you want to learn how to spot the difference between them?

A meltdown happens when a child or adult on the autism spectrum becomes overwhelmed, and their brain tells their body that they’re in danger. It’s a scary experience for the individual with autism, so many will do what they can to avoid it happening. Your child or teen with autism might try removing themselves or the stressor from the situation. Their nervous sytem will cause them to be in flight, fight or freeze mode.

A sensory meltdown will occur with or without an audience. It can be frightening to observe, and you might feel powerless to help. Speaking to the child or teen with autism in an attempt to reason with them, will very likely intensify their overload, making the meltdown last longer. You’re loved one with autism might even lash out at whoever is nearest in an attempt to make them be quiet or go away.

Tantrums occur when a child (or adult) wants to obtain something or make something happen, but they don’t know how else to get it. A tantrum will eventually stop once the child achieves the desired outcome.

All small children will use this strategy at some point to try to get their own way (usually around ages 2 & 3), but some older kids and adults with autism will have learned that this is an effective strategy which gets them what they want.

Unlike meltdowns, tantrums can be interupted with distractions and incentives, and the child having the tantrum is in control of what they are doing.

How can I help reduce the number of meltdowns my child, teen or young adult has?

• reduce sensory overload (learn their triggers)

• reduce social pressures

• reduce the expectation to socialise with groups of people

• reduce anxiety

• increase predictable, comfortable routines & structures

• provide more choices

• teach safe exit strategies

• teach communication skills

• listen

• respect their perpective & point of view

• educate yourself about sensory processing difficulties

How can I support someone who’s having a meltdown?

• be quiet

• be calm

• avoid instructions & demands

• back off & give them space (where safe)

• provide a safe space (move others if necessary)

• show empathy

• provide calming items (this is best planned beforehand)

• use soft music (if the person find sit relaxing)

Recommended Resources:

• Reducing & Redirecting Aggression in Kids with Autism

• Why Does My Child Do That?

• “Autistic Logistics” by Kate C Wilde

• “From Anxiety to Meltdown” by Deborah Lipsky

I hope you find this information helpful,

Thanks for reading!

Kirsten