How to manage ADHD Meltdowns in public places

1. MY 4 STEP PLAN FOR
MANAGING MELTDOWNS IN PUBLIC PLACES

2. STEP 1: PREPARING FOR MELTDOWNS
 Accept the inevitability of meltdowns
 Learn what the signs are
 Talk about situations that could cause frustration – action plan
 Set expectations before trips to public places

3. STEP 2: WHEN A MELTDOWN HAPPENS
 Stop and focus
 Redirect attention – distract, divert
 Ask other people to stay away
 Move child to a safe spot
 Don’t reason, don’t shout
 Stay as calm as possible

4. STEP 3: ASK FOR HELP
 Tell bystanders what’s going on
 Ask them for help – moving dangerous objects etc
 Be prepared to physically remove your child from the area
 In extreme circumstances ask bystanders to call the police

5. STEP 4: THE AFTERMATH
 Let your child calm down completely
 Talk about what happened
 Ask what could be done better next time
 Forgive and forget
 Hug and a kiss