In this article we explain some of the reasons why your autistic child likes to be chased and what to do about the behaviour.

Whilst it goes without saying that every child is different there are common factors which can paint a picture for parents.

Autism and being chased

Autistic children can engage in any number of repetitive behaviours which can range wildly.

The behaviours can include activities such as spinning, flapping their hands or even spontaneously screaming.

It is important to note that a desire to be chased isn’t unique to autistic children, many neuro-typical kids enjoy it also.

Here are some reasons why your child may enjoy the behaviour along with some considerations to think about.

A desire for movement

Autistic children often have sensory processing differences that can impact their processing of sensory information.

For some children, movement can provide sensory input that is calming and regulating.

Movement can activate the proprioceptive and vestibular sensory systems.

When these systems are activated through movement, it can help autistic children feel more grounded and aware of their body in space.

So in short the movement feels nice to them.

Social interaction

It is sadly the case that many autistic children struggle with social interaction.

A desire to be chased therefore could be seen as a positive step as it clearly involves at least two participants.

The activity provides your child a form of social interaction which they are familiar with where they understand the concept.

The roles of the chaser and the chased are clear, and the activity can be repeated in a consistent manner.

This predictability can be reassuring for autistic children who may struggle with uncertainty in social situations.

Repetitive behaviour

It is likely that this desire has morphed into a repetitive behaviour which are common with autistic children.

Your child has likely learnt that it provides them with the sensory feedback they desire.

Also they they feel comfortable with the repetitive nature of the game.

Autistic children thrive on predictability, so if they enjoy the activity and it is consistent in nature, why would they want to do anything else?

Physical activity

Being chased can provide an opportunity for physical activity, which can have numerous benefits for children.

These benefits aren’t limited to physical health, they also include improving gross motor skills and coordination.

Physical activity can also release endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety.

For some autistic children, being chased can be an effective way to reduce stress and regulate emotions.

An avenue for learning

You may want to consider the activity as an avenue for learning by incorporating either numbers or words to the game.

One example would be to count down when you are about to start chasing your child.

Even if they do not have the overall understanding of numbers, subconsciously they may start to sink in.

You could also use the “ready, steady… go” method by leaving a long pause in-between the steady and the go.

Your child will be itching for the game to start so if they are non verbal this could be a stepping stone towards them saying “go”.

How to stop the behaviour

Before trying to intervene it is really worth considering should you try to stop the behaviour?

As listed above, the activity has a number of benefits for an autistic child including;

• Regulation
• Social interaction
• Physical exercise
• Motor skills

It is worth noting however that the activity should always be practiced in a safe manner.

So if your child for example likes to initiate the game in dangerous situations, it is understandable to want to intervene.

Ultimately you know your personal situation best and if you believe some sort of intervention is necessary here are some things to try;

Offer alternative

As mentioned above it is likely your child enjoys the behaviour due to the sensory feedback it provides.

The feeling of staying still may well feel slightly uncomfortable so understanding this you will be well served to offer an alternative.

Something like a trampoline or a swing can be a manageable alternative.

Provide other sensory stimulation

Autistic children may crave other forms of sensory stimulation.

You could offer something like a weighted blanket or an LED light display to your child as they could enjoy them also.

Do all autistic toddlers like to be chased?

While in our experience it is quite a common practice for an autistic toddler to like to be chased, it’s not the same for everyone.

Some autistic children are reluctant to play such games or exercise in general.

So every child is different, both autistic and neuro-typical.

On that subject there may be parents reading this article who are wondering if a toddler liking being chased is a sign of autism.

Whilst it is something we have experienced we didn’t judge it to be one of the most common signs.

Being chased is a fun game for nearly all kids.

It’s certainly not a measure which was used in the diagnosis of our children so links to neurodiversity can’t really be made.

Summary – Autistic child likes to be chased

Being chased can be a fun and beneficial activity for some autistic children.

The sensory input, social interaction, and physical activity can provide numerous benefits.

However, it is important to consider the individual needs and preferences of each child and ensure that the activity is safe and appropriate for them.

With careful consideration and planning, being chased can be a fun and rewarding activity for many autistic kids.