What we call “behavior” is usually the last layer
When a child with autism pushes, shouts, throws things, or leaves, there has often been a previous pattern:
- discomfort
- confusion
- overload
- demand too high
- lack of resources to ask for help
If we only intervene at the end, we're too late.
5 early signs to read before climbing
- Change your breathing or body tone
- It accelerates or it "shuts down"
- Avoids eye contact, isolates herself, leaves
- Repeat an action (rocking, hands, objects)
- Irritability increases at the slightest provocation
What to do when you see the sign (without punishing)
- Low demand for a moment
- It offers a concrete alternative : “pause”, “help”, “water”, “exit”
- Anticipate the next step : “first this, then that”
- Reduce stimuli if you can
Teaching an alternative behavior (that which actually works)
It's not enough to say "no". We have to teach what is acceptable :
- request a pause
- ask for help
- choose between two options
- point/show
- use a keyword or gesture
