An autism meltdown is not a tantrum, it’s an intense response to overstimulation, frustration, or overwhelming emotions. Understanding the six stages can help parents and caregivers respond with empathy and support.
- Trigger Stage: Something like loud noise, change in routine, or sensory overload sets the reaction in motion.
- Build-Up Stage: Signs like fidgeting, pacing, or withdrawal appear as tension rises.
- Explosion Stage: The child may cry, scream, or engage in self-stimulatory behaviors to release emotional energy.
- Shutdown Stage: Some children go quiet, stop responding, or isolate themselves as they recover from emotional overload.
- Recovery Stage: The child slowly calms down but may feel tired, confused, or sad.
- Post-Meltdown Stage: Reflection and comfort help restore emotional balance and prepare for next time.
Recognizing these stages early allows caregivers to intervene with calm and compassion, reducing the intensity and frequency of meltdowns.
At Little Champs ABA, we help families to understand behaviors and build emotional regulation skills through personalized ABA therapy in Utah and Colorado.
Need guidance managing meltdowns? Contact us today!
SOURCE:
https://www.leicspart.nhs.uk/autism-space/health-and-lifestyle/meltdowns-and-shutdowns/
https://ksdetasn.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/resource/upload/636/Managing_Cycle_of_Meltdowns_for_ASD.pdf
What Does an Autistic Meltdown Feel Like: From an Autistic Individual
https://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/understanding-autism-basics
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autism