The author (left) and a girl writing (right)Everyparent knows how difficult it can be when their child is struggling to regulate themselves.
But for parents of children with AuDHD – those who are both autistic and have ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) – it can be especially tough to navigate emotional outbursts that seem to come out of nowhere.
In my experience, understanding the difference between a meltdown and a tantrum is crucial in knowing how to respond – and how to help.
What’s the difference?
A tantrum is a way of expressing frustration or attempting to get something. It is typically goal-oriented and usually the child has some control over it – for example, if they get what they want, they are usually...


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