11 Mar 3 Tips To Stop Autism Meltdowns (Autism Tantrums not Meltdowns)
Posted at 02:55h
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Meltdowns are a challenging part of parenting a child on the spectrum. Learn how to help manage meltdowns with these expert tips.
BCBA Courtney Peters explains the reasons behind meltdowns and shares three important tips on how to prevent them.
What We Learned from this Video:
- The four reasons, or functions, behind problem behaviors are: access, attention, avoidance and automatic.
- Every child is unique, and should be assessed by a BCBA for their own individual needs.
- Stop rewarding problem behavior by giving the child what they want. Whatever the reason is for the behavior, make sure there is no payoff for the child. This procedure is called extinction.
- Tip #1: Stick with it and stay strong. Unwanted behavior could get worse before it gets better. Giving in when behavior worsens teaches your child that throwing tantrums and having meltdowns will get them what they want.
- Tip #2: Give it to them the first time they ask (when calm) or not at all.
- Tip #3: Teach an alternative behavior. Don’t get emotional or give the behavior extra attention. Wait until they have calmed down, then present an alternative way to earn what they want, such as asking nicely.
To learn more about autism meltdowns, watch our videos on managing behaviors in our Free Video Library. Schedule a consultation with your friends at Ability Life Solutions for even more support for your family.