Managing Meltdowns and Tantrums on the Autism Spectrum: A Parent and Caregiver's Guide

Managing Meltdowns and Tantrums on the Autism Spectrum is ideal for parents and carers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) aged 2 - 9 (and potentially older depending on developmental level), who are looking for guidance and proactive behavioural strategies in managing tantrums and meltdowns.

It offers an empathetic approach and provides explanations of what goes on in the brain and body of someone experiencing a meltdown, describing sensory reactions and brain processes. The authors help the reader to distinguish between tantrums and meltdowns, and how to react to these different emotional states. Summarising key strategies, the book then provides short- and long-term strategies to implement, offering practical response plans and a toolbox of techniques that empower parents to further support their child.

For parents and caregivers of children with autism/ASD. Anyone working with children with developmental needs (e.g. teachers).

Table of Contents

Prelude

1. What is happening to the brain?
2. Sensory versus behavioural tantrums and meltdowns
3. Functional behavioural analysis
4. The list of to do's during a tantrum
5. Survival!
6. Pre-empting tantrums or meltdowns and implementing support strategies

Final Word

References

"This fantastic book provides helpful and practical tips to understand, manage and even avert tantrums and meltdowns. More importantly, the book helps us understand our children in all of their precious, maddening and life-changing complexities. This book won't stray far from my desk."
- Andrew Whitehouse, Professor of Autism, Telethon Kids Institute and University of Western Australia