Understanding Stimming: 5 Common Behaviors in Autism

🕷️Spider fingers, a common stimming behavior, is the movement of fingers resembling a spider crawling. It is often a response to mild sensory input.

🎺Hand trumpet is a stimming behavior where one hand is pressed against the mouth while the other hand hits it or the fingers open and shut. It's usually a sign of excitement and can be cute!

🐦Bird wings is a stimming behavior characterized by bent elbows and loosely hanging hands, resembling a bird trying to take flight. It often occurs when the individual is very excited.

🙌Head or neck tapping is a self-explanatory stimming behavior that indicates the need for a break or relaxation. It can be a result of overstimulation, even from enjoyable activities.

💪Chest pounding is a behavior resembling the movements a gorilla makes when posturing. It usually shows extreme enjoyment or excitement but can be concerning if it causes self-harm.

What is stimming in autism?

—Stimming, short for self-stimulatory behavior, is a form of self-regulation or self-stimulation commonly seen in individuals with autism. It includes repetitive movements, sounds, or actions that help individuals cope with sensory overload or express excitement.

Are stimming behaviors harmful?

—In most cases, stimming behaviors are not harmful and serve as a coping mechanism for individuals with autism. However, if the behaviors become extreme or cause self-harm, it's important to seek professional help and find alternative strategies for self-regulation.

Do all individuals with autism stim?

—Not all individuals with autism exhibit stimming behaviors, but it is very common. The type and frequency of stimming can vary greatly among individuals and may change over time.

How can I support someone who stimms?

—The best way to support someone who stimms is to show understanding and acceptance. Avoid judgment or trying to suppress stimming behavior. Instead, create a safe and inclusive environment where the individual feels comfortable expressing themselves.

Is stimming exclusive to autism?

—While stimming is commonly associated with autism, it can also be observed in individuals with other neurodevelopmental conditions or sensory processing disorders. Stimming is a natural form of self-regulation and can be seen in people without any diagnosis as well.

00:00Introduction by Rob, a father of three boys on the autism spectrum. Emphasizes the diversity of autism and the purpose of the video.

01:19Spider fingers: Finger movements resembling a spider crawling, often triggered by mild sensory input.

02:04Hand trumpet: One hand pressed against the mouth, accompanied by hitting the other hand or opening and closing fingers in a cadence.

02:45Bird wings: Bent elbows and loosely hanging hands, resembling a bird trying to take flight. Usually seen when individuals are excited.

03:10Head or neck tapping: Self-explanatory behavior indicating the need for a break or relaxation, often caused by overstimulation.

03:42Chest pounding: Gorilla-like movements of the hands hitting the chest or leg, usually indicating extreme enjoyment or excitement.

04:35Closing remarks by Rob about the importance of autism education and the support of the autism community.