Meltdowns in Autistic Individuals
Self-regulation challenges are among the most frequently observed behaviors in autistic children and youth. Research shows a link between the autistic neurology and these behaviors, highlighting the need to understand these challenges and teach meaningful strategies. The self regulation challenges experienced by autistic individuals may manifest themselves in many ways, but they sometimes lead to meltdowns.
This escalating sequence follows a three-stage cycle: (a) rumbling, (b) rage, and (c) recovery. This sequence can be problematic as many autistic children and youth often endure the cycle without understanding their autism. This session will overview the cycle and discuss evidence-based strategies that can be used at each stage as well as the neurology of meltdowns. In addition, prevention strategies will be discussed. It is important that those who work and live with autistic individuals and autistic individuals, themselves, understand the cycle of meltdowns as well as interventions that can be used during this cycle.
At the end of the session, attendees will:
- Identify the cycle of meltdowns
- Describe strategies that can be used at each of the three stages 7
- Discuss how to avoid the cycle of meltdowns
Practical Strategies to Support Navigating Life and Its Transitions
This session will focus on simple strategies that can make navigating through the maze of life a bit easier. The following topics will be discussed: (a) listening to your neurology ; (b) executive function; and (d) social awareness, including the hidden curriculum. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of recognizing that everyone has unlimited potential. At the end of the session, attendees will be able to:
- How to listen to and embrace your autism and LD.
- Describe executive function strategies for adults.
- Define the importance of social awareness, including the hidden curriculum.
Simple Strategies That Work: Creating Life Success
Autistic children and youth and related exceptionalities have great potential, but all too often their abilities are not realized. This presentation will provide ideas and suggestions that teachers and parents can use to help an autistic student on the road to success. This session will describe challenges that arise at home and in the classroom and identify how parents and teachers can adjust the environment success, while not interfering with typical routines.
Also included in the information is information on what can cause anxiety for the autistic student, how this can lead to decreased academic and social performance, decreased attention to task, and potential increases in behavior problems, and what can be done do to assist the individual to reach his or her potential. At the end of the session, attendees will:
- Identify strategies that lay the foundation for student success.
- Describe how to implement these strategies in school and community settings
- Match and modify strategies to match the needs of autistic individuals.