At VICA – the International Center for Early Diagnosis & Intervention for Scattered Autism Spectrum Disorder, we understand that one of the biggest concerns for mothers with children on the autism spectrum is:
“Why do I get emotionally exhausted so easily?”
“Why does my child cry for extended periods, scream, or withdraw when faced with minor changes?”
“How can I help myself calm down?”
In fact, difficulty regulating emotions is a common trait in children with ASD. However, that doesn’t mean they are “difficult to teach” or “deliberately rebellious.” The feeling after an emotional storm is that the nervous system is overloaded and the child hasn’t yet learned how to express what they are experiencing.
Why do children with ASD have difficulty regulating their emotions?
Differences in sensory processing:Loud noises, bright lights, smells, crowds… can overwhelm children. When their bodies reach their limit, children react by crying, screaming, or withdrawing.
Language and communication difficulties:When children are unable to express themselves verbally, such as “I’m uncomfortable,” “I’m scared,” or “I’m tired,” they will use behavior to replace words.
The need for stability:Sudden changes in schedule, environment, or caregiver can cause intense anxiety in children.
Skill adjustments were unsuccessful:Emotional regulation is a skill that needs to be taught and practiced step by step – it’s not a natural ability that every child possesses.
How does VICA help children regulate their emotions?At VICA, we approach emotional regulation from both a scientific and humanistic perspective:
Applying ESDM and NDBI to build emotional regulation skills through natural interaction.Teach children to recognize emotions through images, social stories, and role-playing games.Designing a fully structured learning environment helps children look forward to engaging with the forum.Guide parents on at-home strategies to maintain consistency.We don’t suppress children’s emotions. We help them understand, name, and learn how to manage those emotions.
What can parents do today?
Stay calm before you demand calmness.Reduce the size of the environment when the child shows signs of being overwhelmed.Use concise sentences, delete them instead of lengthy explanations.Hugs – Jumps – Connection when the child is ready
Quan trọng nhất:Emotional regulation is a long journey, but with the right and consistent support, each outburst gradually becomes a learning opportunity.
At VICA, we believe that every child on the autism spectrum has the potential to thrive when given the freedom to understand and engage with them in the right way.
If parents are looking for a presentation that can help develop sustainable socio-emotional skills, the VICA team of experts is always ready to assist.=***
Vietnam International Clinic for Children with Autism (VICA)
178 Dien Bien Phu Street, Xuan Hoa Ward, Ho Chi Minh City 
Hotline: 028 7106 9268
Email: info@vica.edu.vn
