For parents of children with autism, understanding and supporting repetitive behaviors — such as hand-flapping, scripting or fidgeting — can be key to helping their child thrive. Instead of seeing these behaviors as obstacles, experts suggest reframing them as opportunities for skill development and self-regulation.
We reached out to Sarah Peterson, Lead BCBA, and Melissa Maye, Ph.D., licensed clinical psychologist and researcher at Henry Ford Health, for more information.
What’s the purpose of repetitive behaviors in children with autism?
Repetitive behaviors, sometimes called “stimming,” are a natural way for many individuals with autism to interact with the world.
These actions can provide comfort, help with focus, or provide a way to express emotions.
“Some children engage in repetitive behaviors as a way to self-regulate or express emotions or excitement,” says Peterson. “Hand-flapping is one of the most commonly asked-about behaviors by parents, and occasionally parents will ask for behavior intervention on it,” says Peterson. “I always explain that I don’t want to take that away from a child because it’s often how they express excitement and joy.”
Maye adds that research suggests these behaviors serve multiple functions — including helping individuals with autism regulate emotions and energy levels.
- Parent tip: Understanding why your child engages in repetitive behaviors allows you to respond with support and guidance.
Identify when repetitive behaviors become a challenge
Not all repetitive behaviors require intervention. “If it’s happening in free time and not interfering with learning or social interactions, there’s no need to stop it,” says Peterson.
However, when behaviors disrupt classroom participation or daily tasks, it may be time to redirect them.
“If a behavior prevents a child from focusing or engaging, we can work on structuring when and where it occurs rather than eliminating it,” she explains.
- Parent Tip: If a behavior is disruptive, or harmful to themselves or others, intervening early can prevent repetitive behaviors from escalating over time, suggests Maye. By doing so, parents can thoughtfully guide their child in a way that supports long-term development.
Redirect repetitive behaviors to build skills
Rather than discouraging repetitive behaviors, parents can introduce their children to similar activities they might enjoy.
- Fidgeting with small objects can become sorting beads (or beans for soup!) or other tasks that require fine motor skills. These activities can provide a calming outlet.
- If your child uses vocal scripting from favorite shows, use this interest to encourage back-and-forth communication. “If a child loves ‘The Lion King,’ we can introduce phrases like ‘Simba wants crackers’ to build functional language,” Peterson suggests. Encourage storytelling where the child creates their own versions of a favorite scene.
- Leverage highly preferred interests. “One child had a strong interest in robotics, and his parents used that to help him join a robotics club and eventually a technical training program,” Maye shares. Other children may benefit from structured activities related to their passion, such as science kits, puzzle challenges or drawing their favorite characters.
- Repetitive movements like pacing or spinning can become structured activities such as dance, gymnastics, or swimming to provide fun and social engagement.
Set clear expectations and boundaries
Your child can engage in their favorite repetitive behaviors in a way that doesn’t disrupt their learning.
“We often use a ‘first-then’ approach,” says Peterson. “For example, ‘First, we complete this worksheet, then you can engage in your favorite activity.’ This structure helps kids understand expectations while still allowing them to enjoy their interests.”
Some additional strategies include:
- Visual schedules: Use picture schedules or timers to show when a child can engage in their preferred activity.
- Social stories: Create simple stories that explain when and where repetitive behaviors are appropriate.
- Physical movement breaks: If a child needs sensory input, build short movement breaks into their routine to prevent distractions at school or home.
Celebrate growth and progress
One of the most important messages Peterson and Maye share is to appreciate a child’s progress rather than comparing them to others.
“Every child grows at their own pace. Instead of always focusing on what’s next, take time to celebrate how far they’ve come,” Peterson says.
With the right mindset, repetitive behaviors can be channeled into strengths, helping children with autism develop new skills, connect with others and navigate the world with confidence.
This content is sponsored by Henry Ford Health. Learn more at Learn more at henryford.com. Read more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Your Top Kids Health Questions — Answered!
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