Stimming is a self-stimulatory behaviour that can help a child or young person manage feelings of overwhelm, stimulate their senses, or show excitement. Stimming can be repetitive in nature and can differ in intensity. Some examples of stimming might include:
It can be an important way for your child to cope, so you should never stop your child doing it or punish them for stimming.
There are many different types of stims that neurodivergent children and young people may show. These can be associated with different senses including:
Stimming can help your child to feel calm because it focuses their attention when feeling overwhelmed and can produce a calming change in the body. It can also help a child or young person to stimulate their senses and express joy.
It is important that your child or young person is allowed to stim as this will help them manage or express their emotions. If however, you notice that your child or young person is stimming because they feel overwhelmed, consider what may be causing this and try to think of ways to help. For example, if your child starts stimming when noise levels increase, consider offering a quieter space for activities.
The aim is to reduce any underlying anxiety that your child may be experiencing within their environment, not to prevent them from stimming.
Additionally, if your child or young person is stimming in a way that is unsafe and could cause harm to themselves and/or others (e.g. banging their head on a wall) it's important to understand what might be causing this behaviour and find an alternative way to support your child or young person. For example, if your child stims by hitting their head on a wall when experiencing anxiety around transitions, then identify ways you can support them in managing change, such as using pre-warning and visual supports.
You can work with your child or young person's school to discuss any concerns and support your child to regulate their senses and emotions safely.
Let us know what you think!
We've been working together in Norfolk and Waveney with families and professionals to put together information, advice and resources that are helpful to families. Let us know what you think, and anything we could change or add to make it even better.
If you live in Norfolk
You can contact the Healthy Child Service team by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520 631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you are 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for confidential advice from one of our team.
If you live in Waveney
Norfolk SEND Local Offer provide information and advice on services for young people with additional needs in Norfolk.
Suffolk SEND Local Offer provide information and advice on services for young people with additional needs in Waveney.
Mencap is a national charity who support people with learning disabilities. They offer a free Learning Disability Helpline with advice and guidance. Call 0808 808 1111 to speak to a trained professional.
Kooth offers online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support for anyone aged 10-18, seven days a week until 10pm.
