What is stimming?

Stimming, you’ve heard the phrase from other parents who have a child on the spectrum but what does it mean? Stimming is a shortened version of the phrase self-stimulatory behavior. This type of behavior can range from arm flapping and repetitive behavior, all which are out of the ordinary for us, but are actually soothing actions for a child on the spectrum. As well another form of stimming is chewing or sucking on clothing. 

As many stimming actions may not seem “normal” or are not socially acceptable, we should understand what about it that makes our children happy and relaxed. In doing so we then can find a different action that is more acceptable in society that still gives them that same happy feeling.My son used to chew on necklace clothes etc. I went on autism forum and read about other children doing the same thing. A great way to redirect them from not chewing on clothes it they have item I had never heard of called chewy jewel or chewy jewel.  Lessening or modifying stims can be tricky, but several approaches may be helpful. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) may help individuals to eliminate or modify some of their stimming. Occupational therapy is another useful tool.

In some cases, stimming can be reduced with medications that address underlying issues of anxiety. Finally, some people with autism can learn through practice and coaching to either change their stims (squeeze a stress ball rather than flap, for example) or engage in excessive stimming only in the privacy of their own homes.

Read more at http://blog.theautismsite.com/what-is-stimming/#C710C2VTIS1SuEmm.99