When Your Child Has a Meltdown Away from Home

Kids with disabilities may have meltdowns for various reasons. It could be sensory overload, struggling to be understood, or changes in their routine or expectations. These meltdowns can range from yelling to throwing themselves on the floor. Sometimes they might try to hurt themselves or the person with them. It can be a hard and sometimes dangerous place for everyone involved. 

It's important to try and reduce the behavior. Try to remain calm and figure out the causes of the behavior. Providing a distraction like sensory input or offering comfort and support can sometimes help reduce the behavior.

As parents, it’s difficult to stay calm in these situations. However, if the situation gets worse and you no longer feel safe, you need to have a plan. I learned the hard way how important it is to have one. 

I was recently in the community with my son when he had an aggressive outburst. I tried to calm the situation, but things just got worse. 

I was in a panic! We were in the car, and it wasn’t safe. I pulled over and continued to try to calm my son, but nothing was working. We were both frustrated at this point. I was getting hurt, and I needed help. 

This had never happened away from home before, so I was at a loss. Who should I call? Who could get there the fastest? Who could help calm my son? After thinking about it, I called 911. I informed them my son had autism, was having an aggressive outburst and I needed help. 

They sent officers to our location. By the time they arrived, my son had calmed down. 

This was a very traumatizing experience for me as a parent. After I calmed down, I realized that I needed an emergency plan in case this happens again. I spoke to my son’s network of support and we made a plan. Now I know that if this ever happens again, I can call the network first. Whoever is closest will come help. If this doesn’t help calm the situation, then I can call 911.

Aggressive behaviors can happen. We need to make sure we have the support we need so we and our children stay safe. Sometimes that means calling on our friends or support network to help. 

Find more information about behavioral issues and teens on this website.