Meltdowns In Kids With AuDHD Are Never A 'Choice' – Trying This With Your Child Might Help

<div><img src="https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/682cd3b31400002401a203bb.jpg?ops=scalefit_630_noupscale" alt="The author (left) and a girl writing (right)" data-caption="The author (left) and a girl writing (right)" data-credit-link-back="" data-credit="Supplied / Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash" />The author (left) and a girl writing (right)</div><div class="content-list-component text"><p><span style="font-weight:400">Every</span><a href="https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/parents/"><span style="font-weight:400">parent</span></a><span style="font-weight:400"> knows how difficult it can be when their child is struggling to regulate themselves.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight:400">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.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight:400">In my experience, understanding the difference between a meltdown and a tantrum is crucial in knowing how to respond – and how to help.</span></p><h2><strong>What’s the difference?</strong></h2><p><span style="font-weight:400">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 able to calm down. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight:400">A meltdown is not a choice. It’s a neurological response to overwhelm – whether that’s too much sensory input, emotional stress, or cognitive demand.</span></p><p><span style="font-w