Calming, Parenting Tips

Effective Calming Methods for Children with Autism: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers

January 10, 2024

Children with autism often experience sensory overload, anxiety, and emotional distress, making it crucial for parents and caregivers to have a repertoire of effective calming methods at their disposal. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy offers valuable strategies to help children on the autism spectrum manage their emotions and find a sense of calm. In this blog post, we’ll explore some practical calming techniques that can benefit both children with autism and those who care for them, while also incorporating insights from experts.

Understanding Outbursts:

Many children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may act out when they’re stressed, fearful, frustrated, or anxious. Due to challenges in expressing and communicating their feelings in socially acceptable ways, their distress can manifest as emotional meltdowns or outbursts. It’s essential to have a plan for managing meltdowns, teach the child how to self-soothe, and incorporate calming routines into their daily lives.

Sensory Toys and Comfort Items:

Sensory toys such as squeeze balls and fidget toys, along with weighted blankets, can be invaluable in helping children with autism manage their emotions. These tools provide sensory input and comfort, aiding in self-regulation. Additionally, incorporating the child’s favorite videos or activities into their routine can offer a familiar and soothing environment.

Calming Routines:

Establishing a regular calming routine is key to promoting emotional stability. This routine should be tailored to the child’s preferences and needs. When you notice signs of stress, prompt the child to practice their calming routine. Consistency is essential, and over time, the child will learn to use these techniques independently.

Acknowledge and Give Space:

When a child with autism is upset, it’s important to acknowledge their feelings without trying to reason, argue, or get angry. Give them the space and time to calm themselves down if there’s no immediate danger. This validation of their emotions can help prevent escalation.

Use Favorite Songs:

If your child has a favorite song, softly singing it to them can be a soothing technique. Familiar music can help the child connect with positive emotions and create a calming atmosphere.

Deep Breathing:

Encourage the child to practice deep breathing when they are upset. Deep breaths in and out help decrease muscle tension, lower heart rate, and promote relaxation of both the body and mind.

Create a Calming Space:

Designate a “safe space” within the child’s environment, equipped with comforting items like a cushiony seat, bean bag chair, and sensory toys. This space allows the child to retreat when they need to self-regulate.

Reduce Sensory Overload:

If the child is feeling overwhelmed by sensory stimuli, such as noise and bright lights, try to relocate them to a quieter environment. Reducing sensory overload is crucial for preventing meltdowns and helping the child regain their composure.

Patience, Consistency, & Support

Incorporating these techniques into the daily lives of children with autism can make a significant difference in their emotional well-being. While each child is unique, patience, consistency, and a supportive environment are key elements in helping them develop self-regulation skills and achieve a sense of calmness and self-confidence. By understanding and implementing these strategies, parents and caregivers can provide essential support for their children on the autism spectrum.

AGBS Can Help

AG Behavioral Services provides ongoing care for children, adolescents, and young adults with autism to improve the quality of their lives. If you would like learn more about how AGBS can help please contact us here , or call 908-913-0443.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapeutic strategy used to improve specific behaviors in individuals, often those with developmental disorders such as autism. This field relies on data-driven techniques to modify behavior, enhancing the quality of life for many. Professionals in this field play different roles, each contributing uniquely to the behavioral improvement of their clients. Let’s explore three key careers in ABA: Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA©️), Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), and Behavior Technician.

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA©️)

The role of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA©️) is central in ABA therapy. BCBA©️s hold at least a master’s degree in psychology, education, or a related field, along with a certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). These professionals are responsible for assessing clients, developing and implementing behavior intervention plans, and monitoring outcomes.

BCBA©️s work closely with families, caregivers, and other professionals to provide comprehensive treatment plans. They also supervise the work of RBTs and Behavior Technicians, ensuring the fidelity and effectiveness of the interventions. BCBA©️s find opportunities in various settings, including schools, private clinics, and community centers.

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)

RBTs are paraprofessionals who work under the close, ongoing supervision of a BCBA©️. The RBT certification requires a high school diploma, completion of a 40-hour training program, and passing a national exam. RBTs are hands-on practitioners who directly implement behavioral analysis services.

Their day-to-day responsibilities include carrying out behavioral interventions, collecting data on client progress, and assisting BCBA©️s in managing behavioral programs. Since RBTs interact frequently with clients, they are instrumental in the practical application of ABA principles and techniques.

Behavior Technician

Behavior Technicians, often referred to as ABA therapists, work directly with clients to implement behavior plans designed by BCBA©️s. While not always required to be RBT-certified, many employers prefer or even mandate this certification. Behavior Technicians are tasked with similar responsibilities as RBTs, including engaging clients in activities designed to meet specific behavioral goals, recording data, and providing feedback to supervisors.

These technicians are typically employed in home settings, schools, or specialized behavioral centers. They play a critical role in the direct delivery of therapeutic services and often form close bonds with their clients through regular sessions.

Career Pathways and Professional Development

Each of these roles requires specific education, training, and certification. Aspiring professionals can start as Behavior Technicians, gain experience, and then pursue RBT certification. With further education and training, one can become a BCBA©️, opening doors to more advanced positions in research, supervision, and private practice.

Professional development is a constant in the ABA field, with continuous learning and adaptation needed to keep up with best practices and the latest research. BCBA©️s, for instance, must complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain their certification.

Making a Difference

Careers in Applied Behavior Analysis are both challenging and rewarding, providing significant opportunities to make a difference in the lives of individuals with behavioral needs. Whether one chooses to become a BCBA©️, RBT, or Behavior Technician, each role is crucial in delivering effective ABA therapy and supporting clients in achieving their personal goals. For those passionate about making a positive impact through behavioral change, a career in ABA offers a fulfilling pathway.

AGBS provides ongoing care for children, adolescents, and young adults with autism to improve the quality of their lives. If you would like learn more about working with AGBS please contact us here , or call 908-913-0443.

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