Our oldest, Kali, was diagnosed lvl 3 Autism this past summer and we gave birth to our second child in October. Kali is only 2 1/2 and she has severe meltdowns every time her sister makes any kind of noise, no matter how small, and sometimes they escalate to the point where she hits herself or bangs her head on the floor. Is Kali too young for medication to help lessen the severity of these fits? We're at our wit's end worrying about her physical and emotional wellbeing, so any suggestions are⦠read more
little dose of magnesium chewies or gummies for kids. Mg calms everybody down
Part of her behavior is most likely her age, the new difference in your family, and sensory issues. Noise can actually be painful to our kiddos. I suggest writing a social story for Kali about her new baby brother or sister, complete with pictures. Read it to her often. Make sure it mentions that babies make noises to let others know if they need something... If they need a new diaper, are hungry, or want their family near.
You can also have her wear noise-canceling headphones and redirect her energy into something that could help her such as jumping on a small exercise trampoline that fits in the house, or having her squeeze herself through one of those stretchy tunnels that need people to hold the ends.
Remind her each time she reacts to the noises, that she's alright, use a cheerful voice, and mention what you think her brother or sister wants, example: " Aww, I know honey that's noisy. It's o.k., your brother/sister is just letting us know he/she loves you and wants to say hi!" <3 :)