If you’re a parent of a child with autism, you may have seen them flap their hands, spin around in circles, shake, or hear them repeat the same words or hum. This is because they’re stimming. But what is stimming in children with autism? Is it normal? Should it concern you?

Stimming is normal for children with or without autism. Stimming is engaging in self-stimulatory behaviors that may involve repetitive movements and sounds. These behaviors are self-soothing and help manage stressful or anxious feelings. Please keep reading to dive deep into what stimming is in children with autism and why it’s important.

Why Do People With Autism Stim?

While there are many reasons why children with autism stim, most experts consider it an emotional self-regulation tool. However, many situations can trigger stimming, including:

• Boredom
• Anxiety, stress, feeling overwhelmed
• Crowded places
• An unfamiliar setting
• Frustration or unhappiness
• Happiness or excitement
• Unforeseen change of events
• Feeling uncomfortable in their clothes

Some people with ASD may respond to stimuli in ways others may not. Anything from sounds to textures to lighting or smells can trigger an over or underwhelming response.

How To Manage Stimming

If your child’s stimming isn’t causing a disturbance or danger to themselves or others, you shouldn’t interfere. Stimming is an automated tool that allows them to cope. However, to help support your child, introduce stress management tools to help them with environmental changes or dealing with changes in events.

What Are Some Examples of Stimming?

There are many ways to identify when your child is stimming. By watching their behavior, you can spot the repetitive gestures, sounds, or phrases they may say. From hair twirling to rocking, here are a few examples of stimming in children with autism:

• Opening and closing doors
• Flickering lights
• Covering and uncovering their ears
• Humming
• Pacing back and forth
• Rubbing objects
• Tapping fingers
• Twirling or spinning

Allowing your child to stim will help them cope and learn more life-fulfilling skills later in life. A great way to help support your child is by enrolling them in autism pediatric therapy. In ABA therapy, they will learn and master developmental skills through positive reinforcement and early intervention. If you’re looking for a hardworking and passionate autism therapy center, HANDS is here for you.