Calmer days for your autistic child

What an autism meltdown is, how it differs from a tantrum, what to do during one, and how to prevent meltdowns — practical, calm advice for parents.

Why autistic children may hit, bite, kick or lash out, how to respond safely in the moment, and how to reduce aggression by meeting the underlying need.

Why some autistic children head bang, bite or hit themselves, how to respond safely, how it differs from stimming, and how to reduce self-injurious behaviour.

Why anxiety is so common in autistic children, how it shows up (often as behaviour), and practical, calming strategies to help — plus when to seek extra support.

Autistic children and teens are more likely to experience depression, and it can look different. The signs to watch for, how to help at home, and when to get urgent support.

OCD often occurs alongside autism, but can be hard to tell apart from autistic routines. The difference, the signs of OCD, and how to support your child.

Why change and disrupted routines are so hard for autistic children, and practical ways to prepare for transitions, holidays and the unexpected with less distress.

What sensory overload is, how to spot it early, what to do in the moment, and how to reduce it — plus the 8 senses, sensory profiles, and building a calm-down space.

Why many autistic children struggle to sleep, plus practical, evidence-based help: bedtime routines, sensory and light fixes, night waking, early waking, and when to ask about melatonin.

Why clothes feel unbearable to some autistic children — tags, seams, textures — and practical ways to make getting dressed calmer, from clothing choices to routines.

Why haircuts are so hard for many autistic children, and practical, sensory-friendly ways to make them calmer — at the salon or at home.

Why teeth brushing, hair washing, bathing and hygiene can be so hard for autistic children, and practical sensory-friendly ways to make daily care easier.

Why many autistic children eat a very limited diet, how to gently expand food acceptance, the difference between picky eating and ARFID, and when to seek help.

Constipation and tummy problems are very common in autistic children. Why they happen, practical things that help, and the warning signs that mean you should see a doctor.

A patient, practical guide to potty and toilet training autistic children: signs of readiness, a step-by-step plan, handling poo withholding, and help for older children.

Epilepsy is more common in autistic children. What seizures can look like, simple seizure first aid, and when to get urgent medical help.

Pica — eating things that aren't food — is more common in autistic children. Why it happens, the safety risks to know, and practical ways to keep your child safe.

How to prepare an autistic child for puberty: body changes, hygiene, periods, emotions and privacy — with visual supports and practical, concrete strategies.

What a visual schedule is, why it helps autistic children, and how to make and use one at home — including first-then boards. Free printable maker.

How to plan holidays, flights and days out with an autistic child — preparation, packing for sensory needs, managing airports and journeys, and keeping things predictable.

How to prepare an autistic child for dentist and doctor appointments, reduce sensory and anxiety triggers, and work with health staff for a calmer visit.

Why screens are so appealing to autistic children, whether screen time is harmful, signs it's becoming a problem, and calm ways to manage transitions off screens.

How autism can change in the teenage years — communication and conflict, building independence and life skills, protecting mental health, identity, and online safety.

How brothers and sisters of an autistic child may feel, how to explain autism to a sibling, give them one-to-one time, handle conflict, and find sibling support.

A plain-language, country-neutral overview of the kinds of financial and practical support that may be available to families of autistic children — and how to find what applies where you live.

Build a free first-then board or full daily routine and print it at home.

Ready-made card sets for morning routine, snacks, toilet and more.

What each number looks like for this child, and what helps.

Seek, avoid and what helps — for school or an OT.

Trip, appointment or new place: exit plan and pack list.

During, after, prevent — plus a weekly log. Works without JavaScript.