Meditation is fantastic for many people with autism, though it can be a challenge to learn. You can also combine breathing techniques with other soothing techniques for even greater benefits. This way, they'll be ready when they need to self-soothe. It's helpful to teach your loved one breathing techniques before a meltdown happens. Try Breathing Techniquesīreathing techniques are helpful for anyone experiencing a meltdown, and people with autism are no exception. This will provide a brief break that may be enough to calm them down. Direct their attention to a nearby store or item and start talking about it. Let's say you're at the mall and your loved one is becoming overwhelmed. Those interests are sure to generate excitement and conversation, and that can be more than enough to distract your loved one from a stressful situation. Many people with autism have special interests. There are still ways to calm down an autistic child or adult without physical objects.įirst, try bringing up a favorite subject of theirs. Offer Distractionsĭistractions won't always work as autism calming strategies, but it's still a good idea to have a few in mind when you know that you're going to be in a stressful situation.ĭistraction objects, like sensory toys (as we mentioned before) are helpful, but what happens when you don't have them available? It isn't always possible to keep extra things on hand. Even taking a lap around the location can be helpful if you can't actively leave. If there's no obvious way out or clear quiet place, try to find a tucked-away corner. In a pinch, a family restroom is a great escape destination because your loved one can be alone. If you don't have a pre-planned escape route, try to keep an eye out when you're out and about. Having an escape route pre-planned will comfort them because they'll know that they don't have to stay in an uncomfortable situation (which will make them feel safer). If it's possible to do so, remove your loved one from the situation at least short term. Basically, you're looking for something that will cause a new sensory experience to take your loved one "out" of their bad sensory experience. Sweets, music with headphones, temperature objects (like ice or hand warmers), and sunglasses can all be effective.
They're easy to fit into a pocket or handbag so they're great for on-the-go use.Īnything that triggers the senses is going to work, however, so if you don't have a sensory toy on hand, don't worry. Slime and fidget toys are popular options.
There are plenty of sensory toys on the market if you want something convenient. They can help decrease sensory overload (even if that seems counterintuitive) and provide a helpful distraction for the person with autism. Sensory objects and toys are perfect for soothing the early stages of a meltdown. Use physical objects to calm your loved one with autism. Don't wait until your loved one with autism is already melting down. When you start to notice these signs, even if they're subtle, that's the best time to start using the following calming techniques. They may start withdrawing from interaction, even if they were engaging before. It's a self-stimulating (and often self-soothing) movement that can be anything from dancing to chewing on fingernails. They may start "stimming." Stimming is normal behavior for all people, but it's more obvious in children and adults with autism. On the other side, they may start seeking out sensory experiences by touching things with interesting textures. They may cover their ears or close their eyes to block out stimuli.
The person with autism may start showing signs that they're experiencing sensory overload. Meltdowns are different because they tend to happen as a result of sensory overload.īefore the obvious meltdown, you can notice other more subtle signs.
#Nonverbal autism meltdown full
When a meltdown is in full swing, it may look like a "temper tantrum," especially if the person with autism is a child. Noticing the signs of a meltdown on the horizon (or a "quiet" meltdown when it's currently happening) will help you act more quickly and help your loved one with autism.
#Nonverbal autism meltdown how to
First: How to Notice the Signs of an Impending Meltdownīefore we discuss some helpful autism calming strategies, let's talk about how to know when you're about to need them. We're here with a few calming tips for parents and caregivers.
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