Autism and the importance of stimming
What is stimming, and why is it important?
Stimming is short for self-stimulating behaviours, and is classified as a set of behaviours that involve repetitive actions, movements or vocal noises. It is a natural way for individuals to cope with certain stresses, excitement or helping with concentration. I am sure that most people have stimmed at some point in their lives, for example nail biting, drumming your fingers on a surface or clicking the button on a pen.
Types of stims - there are many different ways that an individual can stim.
Tactile stimming - uses the individuals sense of touch, it may involve the following
Skin rubbing or scratching - there are sensory tools on the market that can provide this input, without damaging the skin, Senseez handheld vibrating animals, can provide the sensation of rubbing your skin when moving it gently up and down your arm or leg. The soft and textured nature of the lil jellyfish or lil turtle is a favourite with my own children. There are also textured bracelets that can be rolled up and down your arm, giving sensory input, without scratching your skin. Tactile sensory brushes are also a good tool too.
Movement of the hands, such as opening and clenching your fists - sensory tools such as stress balls, or squishy products can provide the satisfaction of clenching your fists. products such as colour changing squishy balls can also provide visual stimulation too.
Finger tapping or drumming
Auditory stimming - uses the individuals sense of hearing and sound, it may involve the following
Vocal sounds, such as humming
Finger snapping
Tapping objects or covering and uncovering ears - headphones are also a good tool
Repetitive speech known as echolalia - the Toobaloo is a great tool for hearing yourself speak, and practicing speech and language.
Visual stimming - uses an individuals sense of sight. It can include the following repetitive behaviours
Repetitive blinking, or turning a light switch on and off
Moving fingers or flapping hands in front of eyes
staring or gazing at objects such as lights or ceiling fans, visual liquid timers or sensory lights are a good option too.
Vestibular stimming - uses an individuals sense of movement and balance. It may include the following repetitive behaviours
Jumping - we have found that bouncing on the trampoline is an amazing tool, and assists my own children with regulation, or on occasions, it can provide additional sensory input. The therapy peanut ball also provides sensory input, whilst helping to develop core strength
Rocking either front to back or side to side. Tools such as sensory swings and wobble cushions can be of benefit too.
Spinning - spinning and twirling with a dance ribbon or sitting on a spinning toy can provide the desired sensory input.
Pacing
Olfactory or taste stimming - uses the individuals sense of smell or taste. It may include the following repetitive behaviours
Sniffing or smelling objects - I have found that scented putty, and aromotherapy gives my own children the sensory experience that they desire.
Licking
Tasting objects by placing them into your mouth or chewing, some of my children prefer to chew on silicone chews, whilst others prefer to chew on fabric chews.
Although most stims can help the individual navigate each day, and provide a source of comfort and regulation, enabling participation in everyday activities, there can be stims that can cause harm or injury to the individual. For example head banging or biting.
If a stim can potentially cause harm to the individual or others, then intervention is recommended. By removing the individual from the potentially dangerous situation, and redirecting to a safer but just as beneficial activity can often work.
As a family we do not discourage our children from stimming, unless it is harmful to themselves or others. Providing a variety of sensory tools for everyday use, and a sensory room or area at home or in the classroom gives the individual the opportunity to reach their full potential, whilst reducing stress and anxiety, stimming is an important and valuable tool for the individual.