What is your Toolkit?

A Tool for De-Escalating Moments of Dysregulation in Children with Autism.

In the journey of caring for children with autism, one of the most crucial skills parents and caregivers can develop is the ability to navigate moments of dysregulation. These instances, characterised by heightened emotions and sensory overload, can be challenging for both the child and those around them. Amidst such challenges, having a well-equipped “Tool Kit” becomes invaluable.

The Tool Kit is a personalized collection of strategies and tools designed to support a child with autism in moments of distress. It’s not only a physical kit but a comprehensive approach aimed at de-escalating tensions and restoring emotional balance. At its core, the Tool Kit emphasises the importance of communication, sensory regulation, and coping mechanisms tailored to the individual needs of the child.

So, what exactly goes into a Tool Kit? It’s a versatile ensemble of techniques and items that cater to various sensory and emotional needs. What works for one child wont work for another so there is a lot of trial and error at play. Here are some key components:

1. Deep Pressure : Deep pressure techniques are invaluable in supporting autistic children to regulate their sensory experiences and ground themselves during moments of distress. Examples of deep pressure activities include giving firm bear hugs, wrapping the child snugly in a weighted blanket, using a sensory swing to provide gentle swinging motions, incorporating deep pressure massage on the arms, legs, or back, and encouraging the child to engage in activities like pushing heavy objects or carrying weighted bags. These techniques offer a comforting sense of proprioceptive input, helping to alleviate anxiety, promote relaxation, and restore a sense of calm and security to the child’s environment.

2. Movement: Taking a moment to get up and move can often make a world of difference. Whether it’s dancing energetically to a favorite song, taking a quick brain break (namely a 5 minute pause) with a YouTube video, or doing a two-minute workout warmup, engaging both the body and the brain can be a game changer. Just getting those wiggles out and allowing the body to move freely can help refresh the mind and reinvigorate energy levels, making it easier to refocus and tackle the tasks ahead.

3. Grab bag: Having a compact grab-and-go bag can be incredibly useful for busy moments on the move. This bag could include essentials like colouring sheets, a handful of crayons, a small pot of Play-Doh for sensory input, and portable fidget toys or cubes. Additionally, simple puzzles can offer engaging distractions. It’s important to remember to rotate the items in the grab bag regularly to maintain their novelty and effectiveness. This ensures that each time it’s used, it continues to provide valuable support and stimulation for the child.

4. Cognitive Distraction & Grounding Techniques: Such exercises are commonly used to help calm anxiety by redirecting focus and engaging the senses. Here’s how it works:

• Name or List Items: Encourage the person to look around the room and identify specific items of a certain colour, for example, green. They can either silently list these items or say them out loud. 

• Engage the Senses: As they identify each item, prompt them to notice details about it using multiple senses. For example, if they spot a red book, they could describe its texture, weight, and perhaps even recall its contents or memories associated with it. 

• Stay Present: Remind the person to stay present in the moment and continue to focus on finding and describing items of the chosen colour. This helps divert attention away from anxious thoughts and anchors them in the present reality. 

• Repeat if Necessary: If anxiety persists, continue the exercise with different colours or variations to keep the mind occupied and grounded.

• Artistic Expression: Drawing, doodling, or scribbling on paper can serve as an outlet for emotions, allowing the child to express themselves non-verbally.

5. Breathing Exercises: Prompting calming breathing techniques can aid in self-regulation and provide a practical tool. By guiding them through techniques like deep belly breathing or square breathing, we equip them with tools to regulate their emotions and find calm amidst chaos. These simple yet powerful exercises empower children to navigate overwhelming situations with resilience and self-assurance.

It’s a good idea to practice the breathing exercises with children when they are not in a dysregulated state. Visual prompt cards can be used to prompt the child and remind them of particular breathing exercises.

6. Calming Music or Sounds: Utilizing soothing music or soundscape apps can create a calming environment and help reduce sensory overload.

By assembling these elements into a cohesive Tool Kit, caregivers empower themselves to intervene effectively during moments of dysregulation. However, the Tool Kit is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires customization and ongoing evaluation to ensure its effectiveness for the individual child.

The Tool Kit is not just about the items within it but also about the mindset it fosters. It encourages proactive preparation and a proactive approach to managing potential triggers. It promotes patience, empathy, and understanding, both towards the child and oneself.

Beyond its immediate benefits, the Tool Kit also serves as a conversation starter. By asking others, “What’s in your ToolKit?” we initiate discussions about the importance of having diverse strategies for coping with stress and anxiety. This dialogue fosters a supportive community where ideas are shared, and resources are exchanged, ultimately benefiting not just children with autism but anyone navigating moments of dysregulation.

In conclusion, the Tool Kit represents more than just a collection of tools; it’s a philosophy of care centred on empathy, understanding, and proactive support. By harnessing its potential, caregivers can create a nurturing environment where children with autism feel empowered to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.