One of the most common questions Christine Zuvela, Centre Director of SDN Beranga Lighthouse, is asked by families is how do I stop my child from having a meltdown?

The key, according to Christine, who also has a master’s degree in early education, is to understand that all behaviour is a form of communication.

“It’s important that families understand that they can’t control this, understanding it will help their child as well as themselves in the long run.” Christine said.

Christine advises checking out  Dan Siegel’s Flip your Lid analogy to help families understand what happens to the brain when the child is in meltdown.

“The Flip your Lid analogy highlights that when children are in meltdown, they have lost their rational skills such as their communication, memory and problem solving skills.” Christine said.

“Looking at this analogy it becomes pretty clear that this is not the time to try and teach or change behaviour. All the family can do in those times is acknowledge how the child is feeling and make sure everyone is safe.”

Watch Dan Siegel’s Flip your Lid Analogy:

SDN Beranga is a purpose built, specialised centre in Rooty Hill that supports children with autism and their families.