The Importance and Benefits of Stimming for Children on The Autism Spectrum

Why Stimming Is Important

For children on the autism spectrum, stimming can be a way for them to regulate and express their emotions, such as joy or excitement. In certain situations, it can also be in response to sensory overload and can help prevent meltdowns. Examples of common stimming behaviors in children with autism include, but are not limited to:

• Rocking back and forth
• Hand-waving or flapping 
• Jumping or spinning 
• Touching specific objects or textures 
• The use of chewies or fidget toys
• Listening to a song or watching a show on repeat 
• Repeating certain words or noises

Stimming can be a healthy outlet and an effective way for children on the spectrum to release built-up energy and receive beneficial sensory input. Stimming should never be discouraged based on social norms alone, as it can be a perfectly healthy and typical human behavior. 

What To Do If Stimming Becomes Problematic 

Not all children on the autism spectrum are the same, and stimming can present itself in different and sometimes harmful or problematic ways. If the act of stimming becomes a cause for concern due to the risk of harm to themselves or others, or if the behavior becomes disruptive to their daily routines, intervention and management may be necessary. Some examples of harmful stimming behaviors include:

• Head banging or hitting themself
• Punching or biting others
• Chewing on or swallowing dangerous items
• Excessive nail biting or picking at the skin

If these types of behaviors continue or get worse, you should make sure to consult with a medical practitioner right away for help and advice. 

The Social Implications of Stimming 

Although it is important to be on the lookout for harmful stimming behaviors, many stimming behaviors should be embraced, as they often serve as useful coping mechanisms. However, according to a 2019 research study, autistic adults reported experiencing social exclusion from neurotypicals due to stimming. 

At the same time, rather than seek to eliminate or change the behavior, the participants of the study strongly believed in the fight for awareness and social acceptance. The study’s findings help to shed light on how much pressure is placed on children and adults on the autism spectrum to change their behavior to “fit in” in a neurotypical-dominated world.

Although children should be taught social awareness and to take other people into consideration when out in public, the act of stimming should not be discouraged or reprimanded out of fear of judgment or exclusion. Instead, it should be used as an opportunity to educate others on the importance and benefits of stimming for those on the spectrum.