How to help your Autistic child during a meltdown.
If possible take your child to a quiet and private place.
Give your child space to let the meltdown run its course but still supervise them to ensure their safety.
Try to be as quiet as possible and try to make your environment as quiet as possible.
If possible put your child's favourite show on TV for them. Once when I was having a meltdown my brother put Bluey on TV and it helped me to calm down.
If possible give your child an object that is comforting to them.
When speaking to your child try to speak in a quiet and calm voice.
Don't ask your child to do anything during the meltdown and after the meltdown for at least am hour. This would put more stress on the child and make things worse.
Don't film your child during the meltdown and put it on the internet. Your child deserves privacy. Filming to show a medical professional is okay.
Try not to get angry at your child and don't punish your child for having a meltdown.
If you get overwhelmed and it is possible you can get another adult who knows your child well and understands Autism to supervise your child while you have a break.
If your child is very noisy don't be afraid to wear earplugs or noise cancelling head phones.
