If you have an autistic child who likes to hump the floor or objects then as challenging as it is, you are not alone.

Autistic children can have a number of traits which may seem odd to the neuro-typical, with humping being a common one.

In this article we explore the reasons for the behaviour and give you some ideas how to stop it.

Why do they like to hump?

One of the first things we have to do as parents is try to understand the reasons why they may do something slightly bizzare.

In terms of a desire to hump things it is likely due to some sensory feedback it provides.

The world provides slightly different experiences to autistic children for example they may enjoy licking or mouthing items.

Humping will provide some sort of a pressure to their hips and groin area that feels pleasant.

It may be a little bit like autistic children liking weighted blankets or firm cuddles.

Autism and humping

Knowing the reasons behind the behaviour and being able to stop it are two different challenges.

Here we have some ideas and tactics you can try;

Identify triggers

The first thing you should do is study your child to form a clear pattern of when you think the behaviour occurs.

It may be that your child engages in the behaviour when they are tired, have just had a bath or are wearing particular clothing.

It may be easier for you if you keep a running log in your phone each time your child humps.

Use the triggers

This will be dependent on your child’s individual behaviours but try to adapt a plan around their triggers.

For example if your child is prone to humping when they are in their pyjamas then don’t put them on until moments before bed.

You could also experiment with different fabrics of clothing, trying things like denim jeans or dungarees during the day to see if that reduces the behaviour.

It could be that your child only humps a particular chair or rug, in which case you could move or change it.

Provide sensory alternative

If you think your child is about to start to hump or they have already started, you should have a sensory alternative to hand.

In terms of what sensory alternative, it will be dependent on your child’s specific preferences.

You could try weighted blankets or something like a sensory toy.

Other options include fun alternatives like a light machine or sensory balls.

The point we are making here is that it is important to have a plan if you know your child is about to hump.

Recognise the triggers and then act accordingly to distract them away from the behaviour.

Reward appropriately

If your actions manage to stop your child engaging in the behaviour, be sure to let them know that is a good thing.

The sensory provision will likely be a reward in itself but you could also give your child a treat of their choice.

Even just a nice firm hug and a smile communicates to your child that you are happy with them.

Work on communication

It is likely that you are already trying to work on your child’s communication but don’t rule out alternative methods.

Communication tools such as picture cards or sign language can be transformative for an autistic child.

If you can build the basic blocks to communication you can slowly start to explain to them social do’s and dont’s.

Have another option

If providing a sensory alternative isn’t doing the trick you could have an alternative up your sleeve.

Again this is dependent on your child but if you felt your child was about to hump then you could quickly offer them an electronic device.

What you are trying to do is break what may have become a routine for your child.

If you can stretch out the time in-between humping incidents then you can ease them out of the behaviour.

Summary – Why does my autistic child like to hump?

The first thing to be aware of is that this is a common behaviour.

A large amount of autistic children like to hump the floor or objects.

Naturally even with it being common among autistic children you will want to try to reduce the behaviour.

The first part of the puzzle to tackle is learning why, when and where they engage in the activity.

You should make a dedicated effort to identify triggers.

Armed with that information you can set about an individualised plan to either distract or divert your child from humping.

Nothing happens overnight but with a plan, time, effort and patience you should see a reduction in the behaviour.

Any tips or ideas?

We would love to hear from you if you have got any techniques or ideas for our readers to try.

Be sure to leave a comment if any of the above has helped or if you have any ideas we can add to this article.

Also be sure to search for any other articles you might find helpful.

Try for example searching below for topics like ‘meltdown’ or ‘communication’.