Tip Sheet for Recognising the Early Signs and Triggers of a Meltdown for an Autistic Child in the Classroom

Signs of anxiety

• Restless and agitated behaviour
• Unable to easily calm down
• Needing reassurance regarding the sequence of events and expectations
• Social withdrawal and isolation
• Speech fluency is affected by hesitations, repetitions, stuttering and mutism
• Not wanting to be separated from a parent
• “Freezing” when uncertain what to do
• Conversation topic changing to a monologue on a special interest
• Ritualistic calming movements such as flapping and rocking
• Becoming a ‘class policeman’ to reduce chaos and uncertainty
• Needing to withdraw from the classroom by frequently going to the toilet
• Being ‘jumpy’ in response to sensory experiences associated with anxiety

Triggers for anxiety

• The possibility of making a mistake and schoolwork not being perfect
• Too much noise, movement and chaos in the classroom
• A change in routine or expectation
• Transitioning to a new activity
• A new social situation without a ‘social script’ of what to do and say
• Too many demands, choices and questions
• Specific auditory, tactile and visual experiences
• Someone breaking the social or class rules
• Having to wait or hurry up
• The vulnerability to being bullied, teased, rejected or humiliated by peers
• Observing an argument or conflict in class
• The teacher being anxious or agitated
• Having to socialize or work with a student you do not know
• Being asked to explain your thinking and feelings
• Not being able to complete an activity
• Experiencing or observing social injustice and an event perceived as ‘not fair’
• Being considered as stupid