How Do You Reduce Self Stimulation Behaviors In Children With Autism?
Many children with Autism use self-stimulation behaviors, or “stimming,” as a means to calm themselves or demonstrate that they are excited. Some examples of “stimming” include, rocking, hand-flapping, humming, clapping, manipulating an object and jumping up and down. These behaviors are not harmful. However, they can interfere with learning and make your child less socially accepted. Learn to reduce your child’s self-stimulation behaviors if it interferes with his functioning. Redirect his attention. When your child begins “stimming,” focus his attention on something else. Give him something to keep his hands busy if he is hand-flapping or clapping. Play soft music if he is a hummer. Go for a brisk walk if likes to jump up and down. Keep one of his favorite toys or objects with you so that you can distract him with it. Replace the “stimming,” behavior with a more socially acceptable alternative. Many children with Autism are ostracized because some of their self-stimulation behaviors
