His meltdowns have become extremely aggressive and violent. I've tried so many things and am at a loss for words. I've set him a doctor apportionment and don't want him heavily medicated but want to try something minimal to see if itcan help. Does anyone have any advice or ideas? Please help
Our son has had issues as well. When he gets frustrated, he becomes non-verbal and reverts to using physical force instead of his words to express that frustration.
What has worked for us has been a visual schedule with six choices that express his emotions: "I'm frustrated," "I need help," "I need more time," "Motor break," etc. Having those picture-exchange cards has been helpful beyond words (pun intended.)
Hope this helps.
my son was put on a very low dose (1/2 mg) of risperidone and it completely stopped the verbal and physical violence.
also, he's only 4 and in a new environment. Many neurotypical kids go through this so it may just be an adjustment thing for him. If he's verbal, try taking him to a therapist. We did this for my son when he was young (before he was diagnosed) and she used wonderful games and drawing methods to get him to release his anger, worry and fears. Turned out they were all normal feelings that all kids have but he just didn't know how to express them.
You know this may be out of left field but do you think he may actually want the deep pressure that he gets from being restrained? Could you try a weighted blanket or vest during calm times to see if he can get that need met without having to tantrum? This is just brainstorming but maybe worth a try?
I checked the page and Jacob doesn't have any other symptoms of a test infection