How I descalate a meltdown with my special needs son 😭🐸

I share moments like these not for sympathy, but to bring awareness to the realities many special needs families experience behind closed doors. Every child is different, and what works for my son may not work for another. With that being said, these are some techniques that help us safely move through some of his hard moments with love & patience. 4 steps I use to de-escalate: 1. 🩵 Stay calm. I regulate myself first because my calm helps create a sense of safety for him. 2. Use the “Safe Hands” technique. I gently redirect any aggressive behaviors. 3. 🤲 Gently hold his hands & pray. I invite God into the situation to provide peace, comfort & trusting he will meet us where we are. 9 times out to 10 prayer calms him & helps him regulate. 4. 🌬️ Practice deep breathing. Once he’s able to engage, we take slow, deep breaths together to help his body begin to calm. These moments are never easy, but I want my son to know that even on his hardest days, he is loved, supported, and never alone. 💙 If this encourages another special needs parent, know that you’re not alone either. We’re in this together. 🧩🥺 let me know other techniques I can try seatbelt situations I can use to better ensure his safety. #autism #specialneeds #autismawareness