Meltdowns: autistic children and teenagers

Suitable for 3-18 years

Key points

• Meltdowns happen when autistic children and teenagers feel completely overwhelmed.
• Autistic children and teenagers need support to recognise overwhelmed feelings and know what to do.
• Help autistic children and teenagers avoid meltdowns by stepping in when they start to get agitated.
• During a meltdown, stay calm, give children space, avoid saying too much, and wait.