Tips to Help With Autism, Transitions and Meltdowns

Writing from personal experience I will share tips which have worked best for our family. Autism is a multifaceted disability, and includes both physical and psychological areas. Structure and consistency are key to providing a calm atmosphere at anytime of year. Transitions from one activity to another seem difficult for a person on the autism spectrum. Holidays are a time of year when many transitions take place. Frustration coming from a transition may easily turn into anger and a tantrum or meltdown. Maturity always helps, but until that happens I have listed some coping tips which may prove to be helpful.

1.) Plan ahead and explain the schedule to the child/adolescent.  Have the child/adolescent explain it back to you so that you are sure they understand what you have communicated.

2.) Expect some anxiety, and frustration. This is a magical time of year!

3.) Continue with structure and consistency.

 4. Frequently communicate with your child/adolescent. Check on their mood, eating habits and sleep hygiene.

 5.) Redirection assists the child to switch to another activity and gives them an opportunity to calm down. This works beautifully, and increases self-esteem.

 6.) Before the transition, work with the child to make a list of coping skills, should a meltdown begin. These might include: listening to music, reading a book, drawing a picture, talking to a friend on the phone,  or writing in a journal, etc. Have the child/adolescent take ownership to promote success.

 7.) Be prepared to remove the child from the situation when necessary. If you are visiting, be willing to leave and take the child home if he/she is unable to deal with the transition. This is the best way to cope with a child/adolescent who has become completely overwhelmed.

 8.) Bring a few familiar toys, gadgets or calming objects the child is comfortable with. If the child has sensory issues, sometimes a weighted blanket or vest is helpful. We used a smooth, flat stone which my child kept in her pocket. She would hold the stone when she felt anxiety coming on. This was a discreet way of giving her some control of the situation.

 9.) Keep the amount of sugar allowed limited. Sugar and carbohydrates seem to add to anxiety if a child is on the autism spectrum or has been diagnosed with attention deficit disorder. (ADHD)

 10.) Most importantly please do not assume everything will go smoothly. If you are not prepared for some anxiety along with a transition expect the child to react. Your children expect you to assist them in handling transitions, this is a part of the daily structure and consistency.  Keep a positive attitude, enjoy yourself and develop a plan of action to keep the child from embarrassment should things begin to unravel.

 Have a wonderful Holiday!

www.nichy.org-a site which I have referred to often. Offers the reader to print out fact sheets about diagnosis. Good for family members asking questions!

www.AutismSpeaks.org-a current site on autism and the autism spectrum.

www.CarolGray, Author of Social Stories, Role-playing, and Circle of Friends.

www.AutismToday.org.-online site offers many up to date suggestions.

www.Futurehorizons.org.- online site offers books, DVDs, workshops, and conferences. This site has been one of my favorites!

www.TheOutofSyncChildHasFun, by Carol Stock Kranowitz