Suzanne Shaft

Autistic Meltdowns – A Parent’s Guide

Suzanne Shaft

Autistic Meltdowns – A Parent’s Guide

A Parent’s Guide to Autistic Meltdowns

A parents guide to autistic meltdowns by Plan A-Z — Once an autistic meltdown starts, you can’t stop it. Just let it play out (safely!). Here are three things to remember: 1. Play the detective: Observer signs of ‘distress’ – what happens before, during, and after a meltdown. Usually, the stress level builds up until the child can no longer handle it. 2. Write it down: Keep a journal of triggers – based on that, determine how to address the trigger of the autistic meltdown, like going outside or removing the stressor. 3. They are trying to tell you something: Always remember that a meltdown means your child is trying to tell you they are overwhelmed. They are not making a scene on purpose.

Read more from Suzanne Shaft

Suzanne is a fierce advocate for her children and has done much to ensure not only her children but many other receive the care that they deserve. In addition to her piece on autistic meltdowns, here are some other selected works from her:

How to Prepare for an IEP

Thinking about guardianship

IEP Meetings and Prior Written Notice

About the Author

Suzanne Shaft

Suzanne is a mom of children with Autism and other special needs and has been caring and advocating for them for over 17 years. She is passionate about helping parents navigate all aspects of special needs parenting including therapy, advocacy and education. Her expert storefront is called Plan A-Z

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