SLP 340: The Five-Step Meltdown De-escalation Framework Every Educator Needs: What to do Before, During and After

SLP 340: The Five-Step Meltdown De-escalation Framework Every Educator Needs: What to do Before, During and After

From Sue Larkey Podcast - Autism (ASD), ADHD, ODD and PDA education by Sue Larkey

April 20, 2026 · 34 min · Episode 340

About this episode

Sue Larkey discusses a five-step framework for educators to de-escalate meltdowns effectively.

Join Sue for an upcoming Live Virtual Workshop where you will learn from Sue practical tips & strategies to make a difference. In this episode, we will discuss: ✅ Five Key Strategies: Calm, time, space, communication, distraction deescalate meltdowns. ✅ Meltdown Type: Overwhelming loss of control, different from a tantrum. ✅ Prevention Strategies: Routines, visuals, timers, quiet spaces reduce meltdown occurrence. ✅ During Peak Meltdown: Treat like seizure—remove bystanders, ensure safety. ✅ After Meltdown: Move forward, avoid dwelling, focus on prevention strategies. ✅ Communication Method: Use "now, next, later" instead of saying "no." ✅ Self-Regulation: Teach emotional literacy so students manage their own emotions. Read more about this podcast in the show notes found via the link below suelarkey.com.au/de-escalation-strategies-for-meltdowns Join the Facebook group specifically for this podcast www.facebook.com/groups/suelarkeypodcastcommunity/ Join my Neurodiversity Network suelarkey.com.au/neurodiversity-network/ Follow my Instagram account for regular tips www.instagram.com/sue.larkey/ To learn more about teaching or understanding ASD, please visit my website below…

People in this episode

Host: Sue Larkey

Topics covered

  • meltdown de-escalation
  • educational strategies
  • self-regulation
  • emotional literacy
  • prevention strategies

Keywords

  • meltdown
  • de-escalation
  • strategies
  • emotional literacy
  • self-regulation
  • prevention
  • communication

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Facebook, Neurodiversity Network, Instagram, suelarkey.com.au, elearning.suelarkey.com.au

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