Do you notice your child engaging in repetitive motions or making peculiar sounds? If so, don't worry - there's a good chance they are engaging in what's called stimming. Stimming, short for self-stimulating behavior, is a common practice among many children used to soothe themselves, regulate emotions, or navigate sensory experiences in their environment. In this post, we'll delve into the world of stimming, its different forms, and how understanding and embracing these repetitive behaviors can foster a supportive environment for your child.
What is Stimming?
Stimming encompasses repetitive movements or sounds that individuals, particularly children, engage in to regulate their sensory experiences. These actions can be soothing for them and help navigate overwhelming stimuli in their surroundings. Stimming can involve any of the five senses - auditory, tactile, visual, vestibular, olfactory, or gustatory. It's essential to note that unless the repetitive behavior poses harm, it's crucial not to inhibit or prevent them from stimming as it serves as a coping mechanism for many children.
Understanding Sensory Activities
Sensory activities play a crucial role in assisting children in managing their sensory responses. By incorporating sensory play into their daily routines, children can better navigate their surroundings while engaging in activities that stimulate their senses. This approach not only provides a fun and interactive way for children to explore their sensory needs but also supports their emotional regulation.
Types of Stimming:
Here are some common types of stimming categorized based on the sensory modality they engage:
Visual Stimming: This may include actions like lining up toys, watching moving objects, or observing repetitive patterns.
Auditory Stimming: Actions such as making high-pitched sounds, repeating phrases, or tapping on objects fall under this category.
Vestibular Stimming: Children may engage in activities like spinning, swinging, or rocking side to side to regulate their vestibular input.
Tactile Stimming: Actions like rubbing clothing, tapping surfaces, or engaging in repetitive movements are common tactile stimming behaviors.
Olfactory/ Gustatory Stimming: This may include biting nails, licking objects, smelling or placing items into their mouth.
Just remember, these behaviors are a natural part of how some children interact with their environments. By recognizing and accepting these behaviors, we can create a supportive and inclusive space for children to thrive.
However, at times stimming can results in self-injurious behavior. For situations that are unsafe, it is important to consult with an Occupational Therapist to help provide alternative behaviors to help achieve regulation and sensory needs.
In conclusion, understanding and embracing your child's stimming behaviors can lead to a more compassionate and nurturing environment for them to grow. By incorporating sensory activities and allowing them to engage in stimming behaviors, we provide a pathway for children to regulate their emotions and navigate their sensory world effectively. So, the next time you observe your child stimming, remember it's a part of their unique way of interacting with the world around them.
Empowering Story about Stimming-
We discovered the following book, which has helped us understand and discuss stimming with my family.
Here's to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all children, stimming behaviors and all!
Books to Read & Share with your Family, to help Promote and Understand Stimming - (below list may include paid links)
Flap Your Hands: A Celebration of Stimming by Steve Asbell
Written by an Autistic creator, it shares the perspective of how stimming helps to focus and soothe people.
Ideal for ages 5-10 years
Wiggles, Stomps, and Squeezes Calm My Jitters Down by Lindsey Rowe Parker
This Picture Book is about sensory differences, and actions that help to calm the main character's jitters down.
Ideal for ages- 4-6 years
Sometimes I Stim by Cheryl Toomey
Written by a mother of an autistic little girl, to help children understand and embrace unique perspectives and experiences.
Ideal for ages 5-10 years
When I Stimm...: A Heartwarming Children's Book About Autism by G. De La Cruz
This picture book was written to help children understand and embrace autism, and specifically explain stimming behaviors.
Ideal for ages 5- 10 years
So Many Ways to Stim!: A Children's Book to Normalise Stimming (My Friends are Different!) by Sophie Mclelland
This story explores three different types of sensory input, and highlights a range of different stims. The goal is to promote understanding of stimming.
Ideal for ages 4-10 years
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