Children with autism have different unique needs and behavioral issues. It’s hard for a parent to deal with a child who doesn’t understand his own emotions. In addition, many kids with autism have behavior problems. More than half may be physically aggressive towards caregivers or other kids. This can include hitting, kicking, or biting.
Other behavior issues include:
- Being hyperactive, anxious, or worried
- Hurting themselves by banging their heads
- Biting their hands and fingers
Behavior problems increase if the child has trouble sleeping. Talking and daily living skills have all been shown to be better in children who sleep well. Talking to a healthcare provider is essential to make the kids less irritable and aggressive.
Discover the Discipline Strategies for Children with Autism.
It’s essential to understand the reasons behind this behavior. Most of the time, a child with ASD won’t throw tantrums to catch your attention. Meltdowns are hard to control when overwhelmed, and children do them without being aware of them. Take a look at the most common behavioral issues among kids with autism:
Obsessive behaviors: Intense and obsessive interests are common symptoms in autistic children. When you interrupt their time with the object of interest, children become upset. It might also be a bit challenging to convince them to try another activity.
Temper tantrums: When a child experiences sensory overload, he may throw tantrums simply because they don’t know how to react in a stressful situation. A fidget toy can be helpful in these situations.
Aggressive behavior: 25% of children with ASD display aggressive behavior, such as throwing objects or intentionally breaking them. Remove your child immediately from the situation to prevent him from hurting you or others. Some children even are aggressive towards themselves as a way to self-soothe.
Don’t punish your child too harshly for their behavior. The struggle usually stems from a child’s need to express their desires. Learn what triggers the behavior and have patience. In addition, here, you will find helpful strategies for dealing with problematic behavior.
How about you start reading this article to discover more about cats can increase positive behavior in kids with autism?
