Episode 178 Q&A: How to Effectively Handle Meltdowns, Tantrums, and Challenging Behavior (Without Making it Worse)

<p>This weeks question is from Marcus,</p> <p><em>“I need ideas for <strong>how to manage meltdowns with my son who is seven years old</strong>. He is autistic and also has a history of trauma and has been given lots of other labels too. When he gets upset, he literally melts down, and I really <strong>don't know how to calm him</strong>. <strong>He doesn't respond to things like offering a treat or threatening punishment</strong>, and I'm really not sure what to do to help.”</em></p> <p>In this episode, I will address how to effectively <strong>handle meltdowns, tantrums, and challenging behavior</strong>, which are tools all parents need! First, we need to understand what a meltdown really is and then we will dive into many strategies: starting with <strong>where parents and caretakers often go wrong,</strong> and how using a “bottom-up” approach is much more effective.  I will give you tips and suggestions for all aspects of the meltdown process, as well as helpful reminders for yourself and for when they are <strong>transitioning into a more regulated state.</strong></p>