Tips for dealing with a developmentally delayed child who has trouble adapting to change?

Question

She is 11, developmentally delayed (has brain damage), very bound by routine and becomes hysterical is there is a change to her routine or if something unexpected happens. She reacts by crying, screaming, tantrums that can last for a very long time, very nervious and agitated, sometimes hyperventilates, can't calm herself down. Anyone have tips as to how I can help her calm herself and deal with the unexpected?

Answer 1

This sounds like you need to have a picture schedule available for her. For instance, Boardmaker (software) pictures or actual physical pictures of where you are taking her will probably ease anxieties when there is a change in schedule.  This way she knows ahead of time where she is going and what she is about to do.

I used to work with a student who had traumatic brain injury (TBI)  and with students who were diagnosed with autism.  This technique helps a great deal and I hope it will work for you.  

As for calming her until you can get pictures, I would recommend what's called a sensory or weighted vest.  This provides what I call a "snug hug".  Many children with TBI have sensory issues and need to have that type of stimulation.  I'm not sure if you're in a school setting, but if so you can get this from an occupational therapist.  With other students we would rub their backs and arms until they settled down.

Good luck to you!

Answer 2

You are doing a great job already!

Unfortunately we can't stop "surprises" that happen, and the best idea is to teach her breathing techniques to calm her down.

Answer 3

Visit some websites dealing with Autism, they will have relevant suggestions for you since change is a major issue for ASD kids.

Try teaching some breathing techniques to aid calming.  A good one is to breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth slowly whilst asking her to tap her knees, then her nose etc.  The breathing is calming and the tapping is distracting.

Introduce a 'safe' spot to go when things need to stop and take a break.

Create some visual aides for introducing the changes.  Have laminated daily timetables and if there is a change, show her and introduce the idea as soon as possible.  Explain the change and why it is happening.

Good luck.