Autism Parenting Guide/Start here

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Frequent Tantrums or Meltdowns

• Crying, dropping to the floor, or getting more upset when asked to do something they do not want to do.

• Difficulty switching between activities

Start here: click to open blog about tantrums

• Teach simple communication (requesting help, break, or item)

• Use clear expectations and routines

• Reduce demands temporarily and build tolerance slowly

Delayed Speech or Limited Communication

Not talking or using very few words

• Difficulty expressing wants and needs

Start here: click to open blog about communication

• Focus on giving them items they can request via any form of communication

• Use visuals, gestures, or simple words

• Reinforce ALL communication attempts

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Not Following Instructions (Noncompliance)

• Ignoring directions

• Saying no or walking away

• Only completing tasks when prompted multiple times

Start here:

• Use simple, clear instructions

• Try a high-probability sequence (easy → harder tasks)

• Reinforce compliance immediately

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Repetitive Behaviors (Rocking, Hand-Flapping, Lining Up Items)

• Rocking back and forth

• Repeating actions or movements

• Fixating on objects or patterns

Start here:

• Increase engagement with fun activities

• Provide different hands-on tasks

• Don’t eliminate—redirect to something more stimulating

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Screaming or Loud Vocalizations

• Frequent yelling or high-pitched sounds

• Occurs during frustration or for attention

Start here:

• Identify the function/why are they screaming (attention, escape, sensory)

• Teach another form of communication like pointing/or a picture

• Reinforce appropriate voice levels

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Elopement (Running Away)

• Running away from parents

• Running toward things they want like toys or food items (example running to the candy aisle in wal-mart)

 Start here:

• Increase supervision and safety measures (parent walks in front and provide periodic treat for staying near)

• Teach requesting before access

• Reinforce staying with parent by using preferred item, food, or other highly preferred item