| Description |
It’s easy to get overwhelmed, frustrated and even angry when a child is having a meltdown. This experience is hard for both the person having the meltdown, as well as for anyone present at the time. We will begin this workshop with a review of the stress response system and an introduction to sensory processing. Building on this information, participants will learn what happens to the body when feeling overwhelmed, under attack, hijacked and helpless. Three distinct stages of a meltdown will be described and discussed beginning with the identification of some triggers, signs and symptoms that may indicate a meltdown is starting. Appropriate prevention and intervention strategies at each stage will be provided and discussed. By understanding the anatomy of a meltdown everyone who cares for and/or teaches children with these types of challenges will be better equipped to offer help and support during these difficult times.
GOALS: Participants attending this workshop will be able to:
1. Learn the differences between a tantrum and a meltdown
2. Describe the stress response system
3. Recognize sensory processing challenges
4. List some triggers, signs and symptoms that occur at the beginning of a meltdown
5. Explain the three stages of a meltdown
6. Describe what happens to the body during a meltdown
7. Design prevention and intervention strategies appropriate at each stage of a meltdown
8. Identify specific diagnoses that are prone to having meltdowns
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