If you are asking, do only autistic toddlers stim (?) then you are not alone. It is a common question with some short and long answers.

In this article we’ll explain what stimming is, who engages in it and at what ages.

Autistic toddlers and stimming

Stimming, short for self-stimulatory behaviour, refers to the repetitive physical movements or sounds made by individuals.

It is a common behaviour in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but it is not limited to them.

While stimming is more commonly observed in autistic toddlers, neuro-typical children may also engage in stimming behaviours.

Non autistic stimming

A neuro-typical child may twirl their hair, tap their feet, or bite their nails. These behaviours can be a response to anxiety, boredom, or excitement. In neuro-typical children, stimming behaviors are generally considered as normal parts of development.

It is important to note that stimming behaviours can vary between individuals and may not always be easy to recognise. For example, an individual may engage in stimming behaviors that are not easily visible to others, such as mouthing objects, rocking back and forth, or repeatedly blinking.

Stimming in adults

Stimming behaviors can persist into adulthood, and many autistic adults continue to engage in these behaviors as a way of self-soothing, reducing anxiety, or regulating their sensory input.

In fact, some autistic adults find that stimming can be beneficial to their mental and emotional well-being, as it helps them cope with stress and sensory overload.

It is worth noting that some autistic individuals may be discouraged from stimming, as it is often seen as a socially unacceptable behaviour.

This can be particularly challenging for autistic individuals who struggle with social communication and may find it difficult to navigate social norms.

What about neuro-typical adults?

While stimming is often associated with autism, it is not a behaviour that is limited to this population.

Many neuro-typical individuals also engage in stimming behaviors, and these behaviours can serve similar functions in regulating emotional states and managing sensory input.

It could be something as simple as twiddling your hair while you type or chewing the end of a pen.

Summary – Do only autistic toddlers stim?

Stimming is a common behaviour observed in both autistic and neuro-typical, children and adults.

While stimming behaviors can be more pronounced in autistic individuals, it is important to recognise that these behaviors can serve similar functions in regulating emotional states and managing sensory input.

Understanding stimming as a natural and normal aspect of human behavior can help promote greater acceptance and understanding of neurodiversity.