What to say during a meltdown
Your child is completely overwhelmed — crying, shouting, or shutting down — and beyond reason.
Try saying
“I'm right here. You're safe.”
Fewer words, calm voice, steady presence.
“This is really big. I'll stay with you.”
You don't need to fix it — just be the calm.
(Afterwards) “That was hard. I'm glad we got through it together.”
Reconnect first; teach much later, if at all.
Try to avoid
- •Reasoning or asking questions mid-meltdown — the thinking brain is offline.
- •Threats or punishment — it adds to the overwhelm.
- •Demanding eye contact or 'calm down'.
Why this helps
A meltdown is overwhelm, not misbehaviour — especially for autistic children. Your calm presence helps regulate a nervous system that can't yet do it alone.
Go deeper: read the full article →
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