Teach children with autism to control themselves

One of the biggest challenges in raising a child with autism is communicating effectively. Often times a child with autism is mistaken for a tantrum, even though he is experiencing it meltdown. Unfortunately, they cannot express their emotions and thoughts clearly to their parents. As a result, you and your child will even make a fuss because you both don't understand. Then, how to teach children with autism to be able to control themselves when meltdown ? Here are the tips.

Know meltdown in children with autism

Meltdown different from tantrums, namely tantrums or angry outbursts of children in general. On the case meltdown, children with autism don't seek anyone's attention. They just tend not to care about the people around them. Other than that, meltdown happens because children with autism feel helpless. Meanwhile, tantrums occur because the child feels he has the strength and the means to make his wish granted.

In children with autism, meltdown can happen for various things. For example, because he could not stand the glare, noise, changes in plans, or the taste of unfamiliar food in the mouth. This made him restless. This anxiety is expressed for example by crying, screaming, scratching the skin, hitting, kicking, or biting nails.

Tips for teaching children with autism to control themselves

Meltdown in children with autism can basically be prevented and controlled. Here are the tips.

1. Set a specific time limit

In order for the child to feel in control, it is best to explain how much time he will spend on certain activities. Children may become nervous if parents spend too long. Calm the child by telling him, "In fifteen minutes we will go to the cashier." This is more powerful than repeatedly telling the child to be patient and wait a little longer.

2. Provide clear directions

The child will start meltdown when he feels confused or shocked. So, always try to give clear directions. For example, “Now you are going to take a shower. Only then do we go. " Don't just say, "Hurry up, don't be lazy," because the child will be confused about what to do.

3. Flatter the child's good behavior

This does not mean that parents have to give their children a compliment. Just let him know that his good behavior is worth maintaining. That way, over time children with autism will read patterns that good behavior like that is expected of him.

4. Use positive tenses

Moment meltdown , avoid negative sentences such as, "Don't cry," or "Don't scream." The reason is, children with autism who have difficulty concentrating may only focus on command words such as "crying" and "screaming", not on the prohibitions. So it's best to use positive sentences. For example, "Let's calm down," or, "Talk slowly, okay."

5. Teach children to express their emotions

Abstract concepts such as emotions are difficult to understand, especially when the child is meltdown . Use visual aids such as facial expressions from pictures or favorite cartoon characters to express emotions. Ask the child whether this emotion is being felt. By learning to recognize their own emotions, children can express their feelings without screaming or crying.