Tantrum or Meltdown?

It isn't always easy to differentiate between when a child is having a tantrum or a meltdown. However, knowing the difference between the two is key in effectively helping any child through either or.

What is a Tantrum?

• An outburst that typically happens when a child is trying to get something they want or when they know won't get what they want.

• Usualy goal driven (i.e. seeking attention from adults or peers. The child may stop in the middle of their tantrum to see if anyone is looking at them).

What is a Meltdown?

• A reaction when a child is feeling extremely overwhelmed by something and is usually beyond their control.

• Usually the result of a sensory "overload"

• Not goal driven

Strategies for dealing with Tantrums or Meltdown

• If possible, ignore the tantrum behavior.While this is not the best solution, if the child is trying to seek your attention by having a tantrum, ignoring their behavior may decrease the chances of them having tantrums in the future as a way of seeking attention. As well, DO NOT ignore the behavior is the child engages in self-injurous behavior or may cause harm to others during their tantrum.

• For a meltdown, help the child de-escalate by placing them in a safe and quiet space with limited sensory stimulation. This will hopefully help them to calm down and recover from their meltdown much more quickly.

Reference

Morin, S. (n.d.) The Difference Between Tantrums and Sensory Meltdowns. Retrieved from https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/sensory-processing-issues/the-difference-between-tantrums-and-sensory-meltdowns