Understanding the Purpose of Stimming: Why It’s Not Always a Behavior to Eliminate
Heather Wiand, MA, BCBA, LBA
|
Many parents feel unsure when they notice their child flapping their hands, rocking, spinning, or making repetitive sounds. These behaviors, often called “stimming” (short for self-stimulatory behavior), are incredibly common in children with autism. And while they may look unusual, they often serve an important and positive purpose.
What Is Stimming
Stimming refers to repetitive movements or sounds that help a person regulate their body or emotions. Everyone stims to some degree such as tapping a pen, twirling hair, or bouncing a leg. For children with autism, these behaviors can be more frequent and noticeable.
Why Stimming Happens
For many individuals, stimming is a way to
• Self-regulate emotions like excitement, anxiety, or frustration.
• Process sensory input such as blocking out overwhelming noise or visual clutter.
• Communicate emotions or needs when verbal expression is difficult.
When Stimming Is Helpful
If a child’s stimming is safe and not disruptive, it often supports their emotional well-being. It can help them feel calm, focused, and in control of their body. At LittleWins, we see these behaviors as messages, not problems. It is a way of saying, “This helps me feel okay.”
When to Intervene
Intervention should only happen when stimming causes harm or significantly interferes with learning or social engagement. In those cases, the goal is not to stop the behavior but to
• Understand why it is happening.
• Teach alternative ways to meet the same need safely.
How Families Can Support Healthy Stimming
• Observe patterns. When does it happen most? During excitement, anxiety, or transitions?
• Provide safe outlets. Offer fidget toys, sensory bins, or weighted items.
• Avoid shaming. Respond with curiosity and care rather than correction.
• Collaborate with your child’s therapist. They can help identify which stims are helpful and which may need gentle redirection.
The LittleWins Approach
We believe every behavior tells a story. Stimming is not something to “fix.” It is something to understand. By allowing safe self-regulation, we support confidence, independence, and emotional health.
Because every little win starts with feeling safe in your own body. 💙
