When in the throes of the sensory meltdown, the child is not able to control their reactions, behaviors, or emotions. Sensory Meltdowns are the result of sensory overload, and reaction to the big feelings that overloads cause. This is not necessarily the case when a sensory meltdown occurs. Children are also not typically emotionally drained after a tantrum and can resume their routine with ease. Tantrums can usually be resolved with consequences, reminders of the boundaries, removal from the situation, or distraction to the upset child. This may be a way of testing boundaries with the authority figure in the situation. In these instances behaviors typically occur for an audience, and may cease when the child has achieved their goal. Tantrums are usually in response to the child not receiving a want/desire out of a situation, or not achieving a goal as they had planned. The difference between a meltdown and tantrum however, can be often times, be found in the events prior to the behaviors.įor information on sensory play ideas, you’ll find a lot here on The OT Toolbox. The challenge in determining whether behaviors are the result of a sensory meltdown or a tantrum, is that the child’s behaviors in both instances, are usually the same.īehaviors that are observed during both a sensory meltdown and a tantrum may include: Behaviors of Sensory Meltdowns and Tantrums Look Similar
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