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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What Are The Best Calming Toys For Autism Meltdowns/tantrums?

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Port St Lucie, FL
October 2, 2022
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members shared a wide variety of calming strategies for autism meltdowns, with many noting that what works can be highly individual and... Read more

Members shared a wide variety of calming strategies for autism meltdowns, with many noting that what works can be highly individual and situational, including sensory tools like squishy toys, stress balls, putty, fidget spinners, chewable items, vibrating balls, and weighted blankets or vests, as well as environmental approaches such as soothing music, bubbles, swinging, car rides, showers, and quiet space. Several members offered practical advice for managing public meltdowns, suggesting going to stores during less crowded times, giving children tasks like pushing the cart, keeping fidgets or chewies on hand, and learning to recognize early signs of distress to intervene before a full meltdown occurs. A recurring theme was the importance of patience and self-care for parents, with some members sharing that sometimes the best approach is to calmly allow the meltdown to run its course while ensuring the child is safe, acknowledging that not every strategy works for every child or every situation.

A MyAutismTeam Member

If after a few minutes nothing is working I just leave Kennedy to her meltdown. You want to scream for 20 minutes have at it I have head phones and just go about what I am doing like she isn’t on the floor screaming. I have even gone as far as mopping around her. She eventually realizes it’s getting her no where and stops

October 10, 2022
A MyAutismTeam Member

My son used to run away from me when we were at the stores because he liked to browse through the blu-rays and dvds. When he was 6 or 7 I told him to help me push the cart while shopping. Another tip is to go to the store early, before it gets crowded, or near closing times.
We used to go to diners at 3:00 PM for a late lunch or early dinner because it wasn’t crowded.

October 3, 2022
A MyAutismTeam Member

Chewey or fidget spinner. Both have greatly shortened public meltdowns. Over time I have learned to read my kids and can usually get something in their hands, or get them out of a stressful situation before it gets to a meltdown.

October 2, 2022
A MyAutismTeam Member

Swinging, walks space, space and quiet, Liam likes songs from the musical Grease, astromania dance, and some baby mozart videos. Car rides work often if all else fails..... We briefly had some luck with a weighted sensory vest but after a few months he wouldn't wear it. He still likes a weighted blanket sometimes.

October 2, 2022 (edited)
A MyAutismTeam Member

I unfortunately haven't found any toys that helps Ashley's meltdowns. Ashley trys to self soothe herself and sometimes after awhile it works.

October 2, 2022

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