How do I redirect my child's stims?

Research shows that suppressing a stim creates more negative feelings and distress for the child in the long run and can lead to challenging behaviors as a result. But in some cases, simply accommodating the stims, especially reactive stims, does more harm. For children whose stims are harmful, there are a few ways that parents can help support their child’s stimming while mitigating harm to the child and to others.

The degree that parents, the child’s healthcare team, and school personnel should intervene with a child’s stims depends entirely on what the parent and child (if they can advocate for themselves) are comfortable with.

A behavior-based intervention is often superficial, and more effective solutions keep the stimming in mind but change how the child engages with their environment. Advocates recommend working on helping the student be more aware of their surroundings and their environment.

While the use of interim supports or tools can help mitigate harm in the short-term, parents should be working with their child’s pediatrician and IEP team to determine the origin of the stim and and how to replace it with something that’s more appropriate. You can discuss a sensory diet with your child's OT to help them improve sensory regulation. It's also important to address any medical needs that may be present.

For more information, see our full articles What Is Stimming? and Should You Stop Your Child's Stimming? What Parents Need to Know.