What this section is about
This section should explain what happens when your child is overwhelmed, distressed, anxious, dysregulated or unable to cope. Use respectful language. Avoid making your child sound naughty or deliberately difficult.
Avoid saying
- They have tantrums.
- They are naughty.
- They kick off.
- They are manipulative.
Better ways to explain
- My child experiences meltdowns when overwhelmed.
- During dysregulation, my child may lose control and require adult support to stay safe.
- These episodes are linked to anxiety, sensory overload, communication difficulties and difficulty coping with demands.
Example wording
When overwhelmed, my child can become severely dysregulated. During these episodes, they may scream, cry, hide, run away, lash out, damage items or be unable to follow instructions. They require calm adult support, reduced demands and close supervision to prevent harm and help them recover.
Evidence that helps
- Behaviour diary
- School incident reports
- /MHST letters
- Risk assessments
- Parent logs
- Photos of damage, if relevant and appropriate
Common mistakes
- Calling meltdowns tantrums
- Only mentioning aggression
- Forgetting shutdowns
- Forgetting triggers
- Forgetting recovery time
- Forgetting what support prevents escalation
Part of the Bright Steps Ultimate Guide. For the full interactive walkthrough with printable templates, sign in and visit the DLA Guide.