What is stimming? Understanding different types of stims in autistic children

Stimming, short for self-stimulating behaviours, is a repetitive action that kids on the autism spectrum could use to regulate their sensory experiences. They use it to block overwhelming sensory input, provide needed stimulation, or express their emotions. It is a self-soothing behaviour that helps children adjust to their surroundings and ease in. Stimming can take various forms, depending on the stressors and environment that lead to the behaviour.

Here are some common types:

• Visual Stimming: This includes activities like staring at spinning objects, flicking fingers in front of the eyes, or watching lights.
• Auditory Stimming: This involves making repetitive noises such as humming, tapping objects to create sounds, or listening to the same piece of music repeatedly.
• Tactile Stimming: This form of stimming involves touching or rubbing surfaces, skin-picking, or scratching to experience different textures.
• Vestibular Stimming: This includes rocking back and forth, spinning, or jumping to provide a sense of balance and spatial orientation.
• Proprioceptive Stimming: This involves activities like hand-flapping, finger-snapping, or bouncing that involve body movement and muscle sensations.

By understanding the different types of stimming and implementing supportive management strategies, parents and caregivers can help kids navigate sensory experiences more comfortably. This creates a more supportive and inclusive environment where children feel safe enough to stim and regulate their emotions with acceptance.