Aggression in kids with autism is a common symptom that can make life very difficult for them and their families. If parents struggle to control their child’s aggression, they may limit social activities for the child and siblings, which can have a harmful effect on the entire family. A behavioral intervention program is crucial for helping your child develop positive behaviors while decreasing their aggressive tendencies.
At Camp Worth, we help frustrated teen boys and girls between the ages of eleven and seventeen manage their aggression. We work with teens and their parents to understand what is causing the aggression and create coping skills to recognize their triggers and stop the harmful behavior from occurring. Learn how to better cope with aggression in kids with autism from Camp Worth by filling out our online form or calling 855.915.2545 today to speak with our knowledgeable staff about our behavioral intervention program.
Understanding Aggressive Autism Behaviors
Aggression in kids with autism is often the only way they can communicate that something is wrong. If they do not have the skills to communicate their feelings, it can aggravate them and lead to aggression and potential self-harm. In some cases, aggression can be a learned behavior if parents use a favorite toy or food when they show signs of aggression.
Typical causes of aggressive autism behaviors can include:
- Sensory overstimulation
- Unable to express feelings properly
- A learned response to avoid a chore or activity they do not like
- Sudden disruption to their routine
For children with autism, their aggressive behavior can become uncontrollable, and they will need to be placed in a safe and quiet space until they calm down and can communicate again. At Camp Worth, our therapists have experience working with teens and their families in developing a plan for aggression that can stop their aggressive behaviors before they harm themselves or others.
Have a Plan for Aggression to Limit Unwanted Behavior
Children with autism are very routine-oriented. They use routines to complete tasks and deal with their thoughts and feelings. To better manage aggression in kids with autism, therapists will create a plan for aggression for you to use when they begin to act out. This plan will help you identify your child’s triggers and give you coping skills that you will use to calm them down. The more you stick with the plan, the easier it will be to manage their aggression.
When your child with autism begins to show aggressive autism behavior, it is best to:
- Stay calm – Your child looks to you for leadership, and if you get upset or angry at their behavior, that will only feed into their aggression and make things worse. Take a deep breath or two and keep a level head. Your calm demeanor will help calm them down.
- Follow your plan for aggression – Behavioral therapists create a plan based specifically on your child’s behavior with coping skills that work best for them. You will need to follow the plan precisely each time to ensure you are building an effective routine.
- Reward your child – After they have calmed down, reinforce their calm demeanor by rewarding them with a favorite activity or extra reading or television time.
Let Camp Worth Help You Manage Aggression in Kids with Autism
At Camp Worth, our behavioral intervention program is very beneficial for teens who are showing aggressive behavior. A certified behavioral therapist will work with your teen to understand their behavior and create a plan for managing their aggression. They will then go over the plan with you to use at home or in public whenever they begin to act aggressively. If you’re interested in learning more about how to manage aggression in kids with autism, reach out to Camp Worth today by calling 855.915.2545 or filling out our online form.
