The Autism Program of Illinois Tip Sheet - Planning Ahead to Prevent Tantrums

1. Autism Spectrum Disorders
Tips & Resources
Tip Sheet 9
Planning Ahead to Prevent Tantrums
Go on practice outings and errand with your child
→ Have pretend outings at home to teach your child what you expect. Play “riding the bus,”
“getting groceries,” and “having a check-up.”
→ Go on short simple outings for practice. Use ideas such as “Look, don’t touch” and “Stay
next to me.”
Plan errands and other outings with your child’s needs in mind
→ Sometimes a child should not go with you. You may need to have him stay home with a
caregiver.
→ Pack wisely if he does go with you. You may need:
• Healthy snacks and drinks
• Comfort items…blanket, small toys, books
• A list of his favorite songs
Prepare yourself
→ Be ready to divide your time between “taking care of business” and interacting with your
child.
→ Some experts suggest that parents not reward children for good behavior on outings
because they believe that having a pleasant time is its own reward and rewards lead to
frustration.
→ Ask the pediatrician about motion sickness if your child often complains of stomach
upset, headache, or unusual tiredness when traveling.
Rev.0612
Information provided by 29 Children’s Research Center - http://illinoisearlylearning.org
Prepared by: The TAP Service Center at The Hope Institute for Children and Families www.theautismprogram.org