Autism-Articles

Self stimulation is a key aspect of autistic children. While other children and adults cannot understand why the autistic child does this behaviour it is something they are rather obsessive about and seemingly unable to stop. This behaviour is also commonly referred to as stimming. Stimming is a repetitive behaviour that keeps the child engaged in their own world but serves to stimulate their senses in some form or another. It is often used to help the child regulate themselves in a stressful environment. Many children with autism have difficulties interpreting sensory information. Whether the world seems to rough, too bright, too loud or any other number of things, it all boils down to their minds not properly coping with the world around them. Stimming is one way that the autistic child can bring back control of their world. It can manifest itself in many ways such as running in circles, arm flapping or humming. Though these behaviours may disturb those aroun...

Self stimulating behaviours otherwise known as stimming is a major part of an autistic child's coping method. Though these behaviour can be difficult for the parent and others to deal with, they serve a very important purpose for the child. Stimming behaviours help them to cope with the world around them, and should be allowed unless they cause a danger to the child or those around them. How can you keep your sanity, while allowing your little one to keep theirs with their self stimulation behaviors? You can always try and replace their current method of self stimulation with one that is more socially acceptable (to increase their ability to socialize with peers and not be ridiculed for their behaviours) of more health appropriate. For example, if their behaviour is to suck on things, you could try giving them a sucker, or a chew toy to suck on instead so that they are not sucking on random items that can cause a risk to their health. Now remember this may not work...