How to Handle Tantrums of Pre-School Aged Children With Autism

How to control temper tantrums in children who have autism.

Instructions

1. Temper Tantrums are common in children who have autism. Although children who don't have autism throw tantrums too, theirs are usually not as hard to control and deal with. Temper tantrums in children with autism consist of screaming, crying, kicking, throwing themselves on the floor and even hurting themselves in order to communicate that they don't like something. These tantrums can last for a long time once started so if you're dealing with a child that is autistic then you will definitely want to have some strategies on how to deal with their tantrums. Here are a few tips for parents on how they can help to control the temper tantrums in children with autism.

   Stop It Before It Starts

   As mentioned before, temper tantrums in children with autism can last for a long time. If you are a parent who has a child with autism then you already know this. Depending on the severity of the condition this could mean hours for some children. Stopping the temper tantrum before it starts would be the ideal thing to do if you are dealing with a child with autism. When you start to see signs of a tantrum coming on, divert the child's attention to something that they are interested in. This could be a number of things. A book, a toy, a game, an instrument, etc. Hugs have also been known to be an effective remedy for tantrums in children who have autism.

2. Hold Arms

   Often, during the tantrums of children with autism, they will resort to hurting themselves or others. The best way to deal with this is to gently but firmly hold the arms of the child until they stop. No matter how hard the child puts up a fight, continue to hold their arms until the behavior ceases.

3. Let Them Go

   Sometimes you may just have to let children with autism throw the tantrum. Just make sure he/she is out of the way of everyone and let them have at it. The worst thing you could do is try to discipline them while they are having a tantrum. Often times this will make it worse. Ignore the tantrum but keep a watchful eye out for the child to make sure they don't hurt themselves or others.

4. Control Yourself

   When dealing with the temper tantrum of a child with autism, you definitely want to control yourself. Even though the child is throwing a tantrum they are still learning from your behavior and using you as an example of how to act. Make sure you set a good example by staying calm.