Autistic Child Screams When an Activity Ends: How to Make Transitions Easier

An autistic child may scream when a favorite activity ends because stopping something enjoyable can feel sudden, upsetting, or unpredictable. Prepare them before the transition with countdown warnings such as 10 minutes, 5 minutes, and 2 minutes. Show what comes next with simple words or a First–Then visual, and give the activity a clear ending such as “one last turn.” Calm, consistent endings help children understand transitions and gradually handle them with less distress.