A child yelling, shaking, and crying in public is nothing new, yet parents may find themselves struggling to understand whether their child is having a normal tantrum on the grocery store floor, or if their child is having a autistic meltdown or panic attack instead. While all three may present similarly, and all function as communication tools that have turned into outsized reactions, they differ wildly in their purpose. A parent’s job is to understand what the purpose is and how to resolve it—or better yet, how to help their child resolve it themselves. 

This episode suggests that tantrums, meltdowns, and panic attacks are communication methods for varying unmet needs; while the neurology and underlying trigger for each may vary, they all require close management for children to overcome either through accommodations or skill development in order to promote effective child development.

#autism #asd #neurodivergence #autismparenting

In this episode of the Refrigerator Moms podcast, Julianna and Kelley discuss the differences between tantrums, meltdowns, and panic attacks, emphasizing their significance for parents of autistic children. They share personal anecdotes and insights, explaining that tantrums are about unmet desires, meltdowns result from sensory overload, and panic attacks stem from fear. The hosts offer strategies for managing these situations, stressing the importance of understanding triggers and maintaining a calm response. They also highlight the value of empathy and clear communication in supporting autistic individuals through challenging moments. (Understanding Tantrums, Meltdowns, and Panic Attacks in Autistic Individuals)

00:00 Introduction to Tantrums, Meltdowns, and Panic Attacks 

01:03 Personal Stories and Experiences 

02:53 Understanding Tantrums 

07:54 Dealing with Meltdowns 

10:23 Panic Attacks and Their Management 

16:18 Strategies for Handling Meltdowns in Public 

17:43 Managing Meltdowns at School 

19:47 Conclusion and Resources