Depending on where they fall on the spectrum, they might struggle to understand consequences or handle harsh reprimands. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't use any discipline at all. Instead, gentler and consistent strategies may be the key to helping children with autism manage their behavior.
However, you should refrain from any kind of physical or verbal punishment that could have a negative effect on your child. Instead, be gentle with your words and actions. If your child is screaming and having a tantrum, keep calm and don't raise your voice.
For parents of children with autism, discipline can be particularly important in helping their child develop social skills, communication skills, and self-control. It's important to remember that discipline should always be done in a loving and supportive manner.
Yelling at children with autism can cause depression and negatively impact the emotional wellbeing of the child.
Calmly redirect your child to a different method of communication. For example, if your child usually hits you to get your attention, you can instead instruct them to tap you on the arm and say “excuse me”. Only give your child direct acknowledgment (eye contact, etc.) when they engage in the appropriate behavior.
You could use visual cues like pictures of headphones or a quiet place. Try not to say too much. Instead use pictures or written words to guide your child to a safe, quiet place and suggest calming strategies. Give your child space and don't touch them.
While some people with autism merely yell or stamp, many really do become overwhelmed by their own emotions. 3 Bolting, hitting, self-abuse, crying, and screaming are all possibilities. These can be particularly frightening—and even dangerous—when the autistic individual is physically large.
Among those with autism, common triggers include disturbing breaks in routine, lack of sleep, jarring “sensory stimuli” (noises, lights, or smells) or even undiagnosed mental health problems.
Impulse control can be one of the more challenging tasks for many people on the autism spectrum. Feelings of frustration or anger that a neurotypical person might be able to manage without much difficulty can be overwhelming for someone with autism.
Be sure to praise your son's efforts – both in asking a question and then listening to the response. At the same time, have patience and take small steps that encourage success. For instance, consider prompting the conversation partner beforehand to keep his response short in the beginning.
For parents of such children, communication is a problem that compounds the stress & anxiety of parents. Parents face the challenge that their child is unable to communicate their needs and wants. With children at times unaware of nonverbal communication and cues, the challenges of parenting get compounded.
This book describes a model of positive behavior supports for preventing and responding to the cycle of meltdown behavior for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The model includes six phases: Calm, Triggers, Agitation, Meltdowns, Re-Grouping, and Starting Over.
Young kids, autistic or not, deserve to see that they are loved and cared for even when they are falling apart. Not all kids are able or willing to take comfort in the middle of a meltdown, but staying nearby, acknowledging their feelings, and showing that you care nurtures emotional connection and security.
Sensory overload happens when an intense sensory stimulus overwhelms your ability to cope. This can be triggered by a single event, like an unexpected loud noise, or it can build up over time due to the effort it takes to cope with sensory sensitivities in daily life.
Create A Structured Environment
Children with autism feel much more comfortable and connected when they have a set routine with clear structures, and minimal alterations from their predicted schedule.
Explain unspoken social rules and use logic: “You shouldn't scream as it hurts other people's ears and they won't want to do nice things for you if you do.” Write the explanation down, with visuals, along with suggestions of what the child can do if they think they are going to scream. Value autistic traits.
Autistic individuals prefer predictability, routines, and patterns, making sudden changes difficult. It bothers them greatly when unexpected changes occur, and they become very upset about it. For instance, HFA individuals may stick with routines developed for them by other people or themselves.
Hobbies such as collecting stamps, playing cards or board games, drawing and photography can also provide opportunities for enjoyment, as well as increased self-confidence and motivation individuals on the spectrum.
As a parent, loving your child for who they are is key. Stay consistent and on schedule. People on the spectrum like routines. Make sure they get consistent guidance and interaction, so they can practice what they learn from therapy.
It's common for autistic children to behave in challenging ways or ways that are difficult to manage. For example, autistic children and teenagers might: refuse or ignore requests. behave in socially inappropriate ways, like taking their clothes off in public.