Dear Starters

Building your own resilience is crucial. Caring for an aggressive child can be draining and triggering. Schedule regular self-care: a brief walk, a phone call with a friend, or five […]

Clear, consistent limits help your child feel secure. Before any activity, state both the rule and the reward: “We’ll play blocks for ten minutes, then choose a song to dance

Preventing meltdowns often means proactively managing sensory input. Keep a diary of aggressive episodes: note time of day, environment (light, sound), activities, and your child’s mood. Look for patterns maybe

Emotional coaching fosters self-awareness. After an aggressive incident, wait until your child is calm, then sit side by side and say, “I noticed your face felt tight and your hands

Teaching replacement behaviors helps your child express anger safely. Whenever you see tension rising, prompt a practiced alternative: “Use your anger card” or “Tap your shoulders.” You might hold their

When aggression escalates, safety is your top priority for your child and everyone around. Position yourself at an angle, not directly facing them, to appear less confrontational. Keep a block

Preventing meltdowns often means proactively managing sensory input. Keep a diary of aggressive episodes: note time of day, environment (light, sound), activities, and your child’s mood. Look for patterns maybe

When your child’s frustration peaks, your calm presence matters most. First, remove any immediate dangers, move sharp or heavy objects out of reach. Lower your voice and slow your movements

Autism is not something to be “normalized” but celebrated. The differences that come with autism unique ways of thinking, intense focus, creativity, and honesty are gifts that enrich our world.