From Frustration to Flexibility: Successful Mindset Shifts for Autism Moms

Thriving Moms of Autistics

Hi Moms! I’m channeling the Golden Girls today. Picture it! Indiana 2024… Your son has a meltdown after finding out his favorite McDonalds is shut down for remodeling and he can’t get their chicken nuggets and fries. Yes, we all have the stories of meltdowns and disarray.

In this episode, I share how to deal with the fallout of unexpected meltdowns and not get stuck in your head.

Find the full transcript for this episode at

www.thrivingmomsofautistics.com/71

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The Struggle is Real for Moms of Autistics

It is so easy to get stuck in your head. We all have been there. We think, “This isn’t going to get better” and even question if we are enough for our child.

Psychologist Carol Dweck studied the impact of getting stuck in your head and developed the concept of a fixed mindset. This is the false belief that intelligence and abilities cannot be changed and are set in stone.

Through her research, she developed the idea that our brains are constantly learning and growing. This is referred to as a growth mindset.

Our children desire structure, predictability, and a comfortable place to experience the world. They aren’t trying to be difficult. It looks like a fixed trait, but is it? Can it be a strength that evolves and grows?

We all want consistency, structure, and comfort in our lives, right?

Opportunities for Moms of Autistics to Grow Their Mindsets

Individuals can grow their mindsets! When we grow our mindset, we model this for our children. Yes, our children can experience growth as well.

1. Shift from Focusing on Outcomes to Focusing on Effort - For example, notice your efforts such as when you remained calm during a meltdown and helped your child transition successfully. Or when your child practiced their spelling words for 5 minutes without frustration rather than 3 minutes.
2. Embrace Challenges - View challenging through the learning lens. Ask how you can do things differently next time. Maybe create a social story for unexpected situations like having to choose another restaurant when their favorite one is closed.
3. Model Growth Mindset - Acknowledge when you had a misstep and that you are able to learn from it. That is so powerful for you and your child.

Meltdowns are going to happen. You will have off days, I promise! Shifting your mindset makes all the difference. Add this to your mom toolbox and build this tool over time.

Also, visual timers aren’t just for your child. When you are struggling, it’s okay to say, “Mommy needs a moment to process” and set the timer. This makes it real and acceptable. Your child will recognize that everyone needs help once in a while.

Check out my FREE 4 Step Guide to Tap into Your Strengths, Create a Supportive Community, and Thrive Through The Autism Journey. You can find it on the home page of www.thrivingmomsofautistics.com

I hope this helps!

Let’s meet up again next week!