Common problem of parents who have a child who has autism or ADHD is tantrums or meltdowns most specially in the public place. Tantrums and meltdowns are one of the biggest challenges of parenting. It is hard to understand why it is happening. Also, it is hard to prevent and respond immediately.
Tantrum is defined as uncontrolled outburst of anger and frustration usually in the young child. It usually subsided when parents ignore a child or shift the attention of a child. Meltdown is an intense response to overwhelming situations. It is happening when a child loses behavioral control due to overwhelmed of present situation. It can be expressed by shouting, screaming, crying, biting, kicking and others. Meltdown can only stops when a parent is able to calm down a child or when a child out in the present or current situation. It is also associated with a child with autism.
Tantrums and meltdown can be triggered by so many problems. It cause by inability to regulate emotions. A child may not develop emotional regulation as part of normal development.
Things that triggered tantrums and meltdowns includes sensory issues, changes in routines, anxiety and communication difficulties. It is important for a parent or care taker to identify the things that trigger meltdowns and tantrums so that it can be prevented.