Meltdowns are involuntary responses to a nervous system overload. They are triggered by difficulties with sensory processing, communication and emotional regulation. The reaction is involuntary and cannot be controlled as intense emotions take over, tension is built up and released by stimming, repetitive movements, screaming, crying, zoning out and etcetera. Recovery time for meltdowns can last up to 20 minutes or more after the stressor is removed (Autism Research Institute, 2023).
Meltdowns can be overwhelming and tend to be more extreme as compared to tantrums. Children are usually unaware of what they are doing and are not in control. Meltdowns can be complicated to handle, however, regardless of whether it is a tantrum or meltdown, it is a response where the child is trying to express that they do not have the capacity in coping with the present situation. A meltdown might be impossible to entirely eliminate but knowing your child’s triggers can help to avoid and allow the child to regain control of the present situation (SPD, 2019).
Signs of Meltdowns
Meltdowns can look and feel differently among individuals but some ways in which it can be expressed but are not limited to:
Physical (kicking, hitting, throwing items, pacing, leaving the place, covering ears)
Emotional (crying, withdrawal from others, agitation)
Verbal (screaming, crying, repeating words or phrases)
Shut down (staying in bed for hours) (Qi Creative, 2023).
Meltdowns will exist till the child feels safe and calm. It is essential to combat these situations but it could be challenging when one does not know how to respond. The stressor will continue to exist resulting in agonizing or treacherous circumstances. Regulation occurs differently in every child as they have their own preferred set of activities they enjoy or items.
Calming Strategies
These are some calming strategies which could be useful and beneficial for the child during a meltdown. The first step is always to prevent the meltdown from occurring. It is important to identify and avoid the triggers if possible.
Deep pressure (weighted blankets or massage can ease the child into a calmer state)
Distraction could divert the child’s attention such as singing a song, taking a walk or making silly faces
Pop-up tents or safe space will allow alone time. Place soothing objects like bean bags, soft toys or favorite blanket to liven up the mood and allow a comforting space
Noise-cancelling headphones can help to reduce noise which could lead to sensory overload. Sensory objects can also decrease sensory overload such as slime or fidget toys
Breathing techniques
Exercise and movement such as running, jumping or strength exercises can stimulate and help the child to calm down (Daybreak Independent Services, 2022; Ford, 2017).
It is important to keep in mind that every child is different. What works for others may not necessarily work for your child. Through trial and error, you should at least be able to find at least one effective strategy which works best for your child.
Written by Keisha.
References
Autism Research Institute. (2023). Meltdowns and Calming techniques in Autism. Retrieved from https://autism.org/meltdowns-calming-techniques-in-autism/
Daybreak Independent Services. (2022). 7 Calming strategies for Autism every parent or guardian should know. Retrieved from https://www.daybreakis.org/news-stories/7-calming-strategies-for-autism-every-parent-or-guardian-should-know
Ford. (2019). The best strategies for calming autistic tantrums and meltdowns. Retrieved from https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/autism-tantrums-meltdown-strategies
Qi Creative. (2023). Meltdowns: Triggers, supports and more. Retrieved from https://www.qicreative.com/news/meltdowns-triggers-supports-and-more
SPD. (2019). Managing tantrums and meltdowns. Retrieved from https://www.spd.org.sg/managing-tantrums-and-meltdowns/
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