Touch, sound, and light are some of the things that can be overstimulated by a child with special needs.Unexpected events such as changes in routine can cause them to be overwhelmed and frustrated.They may have meltdowns because of the difficulties they have in communicating.A child may scream, destroy property, or even respond violently to others during a meltdown.It's important for parents to know how to calm a child with special needs.Try different techniques to find the one that works best for you and your child.
Step 1: Figure out what happened.
You can keep them away from upsetting things if you find the cause.This is important in calming a child.Try to figure out the causes of certain behaviors by observing your child.If a parent or guardian is aware of the child's triggers, they may be able to avoid it.You can prevent triggering meltdowns by keeping a notebook to record the child's common triggers.You could use a phone app to record meltdowns and their causes.Changes in a child's routine, over stimulation, frustration, and communication difficulties are some of the common causes of meltdowns.There are meltdowns and tantrums.Tantrums are thrown as a power play and will stop once you give in.When a person with an intellectual disability becomes so stressed that they cannot control themselves, they feel powerless and will not stop until it has run its course.
Step 2: Make a routine.
The child can predict what will happen when a routine is followed.It helps to keep the child calm.The child can see the schedule for the day or week.If you know that there will be changes to the routine on a given day, make sure you prepare your child.Talk to them before the changes are made.It is best to introduce your child to a new environment when there is less stimuli.Bring your child when there is less noise or fewer people.
Step 3: Talk to your child in a way that's clear.
A source of frustration for many children is verbal communication.Talk calmly, respectfully, and clearly.The meltdown may get worse if you shout or use an aggressive tone.You can communicate with your child through pictures or other forms of AAC.Communication goes both ways.Make it clear to your child that you value and respect what they say.If you need clarification, ask them.
Step 4: If you suspect that the cause is emotional/psychological, remove the child.
It's possible to calm your child down when they're upset.Try to play with a toy, watch a video, or listen to a song.If possible, involve their interests.Sometimes distraction won't work.Questions about your sister's rock collections might distract from her fears about getting a flu shot, but it won't fix her problem if her dress seam feels like fire ants on her skin.When the child is calm again, it is a good idea to talk to them about what made them angry in the first place.Work together to find ways to prevent it from happening again.
Step 5: The child's surroundings need to be changed.
Your child may be upset because they are hypersensitive.Bringing the child to a different environment or changing the environment is a good idea when this happens.To reduce overstimulation, turn off loud music.If your child experiences fluorescent lights, it is better to take them to a room with alternative lighting, rather than putting them up with it.If the environment is not easy to change, take precautions.You could give your child sunglasses to prevent hypersensitivity to light or earplugs to drown out noise to wear in public places.There are precautions with your child.
Step 6: Your child should be given some space.
Children need time to re-engage.In areas with limited sensory stimuli, try to let them sit for a while to calm down.Consider the safety.A young child should not be left alone or locked in a room.If the child wants to leave, make sure they are safe.
Step 7: Discuss the issue with your child.
Instead of blaming or punishing your child, talk about ways to prevent meltdowns and better cope with stress.Talk about what the child thinks caused the meltdown.What can be done to avoid similar situations in the future.Taking a break, counting, using deep breaths, and asking to leave are more effective.Future meltdowns can be ended with an escape plan.
Step 8: Apply enough pressure.
Sensory processing differences can be difficult for children with special needs.Applying pressure causes muscles to relax.Wrap your child in a blanket or several blankets.Don't cover their face if you want to create soothing pressure, but be careful not to interfere with breathing.There are online tools that can provide deep pressure.Weighted blankets, toys, vests, and lap pads are all possibilities.
Step 9: A deep pressure massage is recommended for children.
If you want to strengthen your relationship with your child, massage is a good way to do it.The child should be between your legs.Put your hands on the child's shoulders.Move your hands slowly over their shoulders.Ask a massage therapist for tips if you don't feel comfortable.Ask someone you know who gives good back rubs.
Step 10: A pillow press is a good idea.
A pillow press is done by positioning the child on a soft surface.Use a second pillow or cushion to apply pressure to the torso, arms and legs when the child is lying down.To prevent accidental suffocation, never cover the child's face.
Step 11: Understand how stimulation works.
The sense of spatial orientation is influenced by the vestibular system.The exercises calm the child using swinging or rocking motions.The child's attention is focused on their physical sensation.
Step 12: Return and forth.
Place the child in a swing.Slow down or speed up until your child is calm.If swinging makes things worse, stop.It might be a good idea to install an indoor swing.No matter what the weather is, this can be accessed.Some children can swing.They should be suggested to go to their swing.
Step 13: The child is sitting in a chair.
A stimulating exercise is spinning.The activity will likely stop a meltdown by redirecting attention to the sensations.Office chairs tend to work well.The child should be firmly seated and spin the chair slowly.Some children prefer to keep their eyes open while others close them.