For parents trying to figure out how to stop a child with autism skin picking can be a challenge.

In this article we explore the problem and what you can do.

An autistic child skin picking

Autistic children may exhibit different forms of behaviour some of which could be deemed as quite puzzling.

One such common behaviour is skin picking.

Skin picking can be an obvious cause for concern for parents, it can lead to soreness and even infection

Also sometimes called dermatillomania or excoriation disorder, skin picking isn’t just something which affects people with autism.

Some neuro-typical people also engage in the behaviour but it is prevent in those with the condition.

Why may a child with autism pick their skin?

Children with autism may pick their skin for various reasons. One reason is sensory processing issues.

Children with autism may have a heightened sensitivity to touch, pain and general sensitivity.

As strange as it may seem to parents skin picking may provide a stimulation that is calming or soothing to the child.

Put simply it may feel nice for your child.

It can also be a repetitive behaviour employed for the child to cope with their emotions or cope with anxiety or stress.

Such anxiety and stress can lead to linked behaviours such as enjoying ripping paper.

Some autistic children also like to focus intently on a task or activity so to block out exterior noises or distractions.

Focusing on something small like a peeling strip of skin may provide that lasered in task they crave.

How to stop autism skin picking

First, it’s important to understand that skin picking is a behaviour that serves a purpose for the child.

Although it can be harmful and it is something you’ll probably want to phase out, being too authoritative may set you back.

Instead, parents can try the following strategies:

Identify why and when

You should first embark on a period of investigation.

What you will need to look for is if there are any common factors which cause the behaviour.

For example it may be that your child starts when there are loud noises in the background.

Or it could be that they engage in the activity when they are tired or hungry.

Once you have learnt what initiates the behaviour you can set about trying to tackle it.

Provide an alternative

Like so much with autism it may well have something to do with a sensory desire.

Again through a process of trial and error you could offer sensory toys or games when you think your child may start skin picking.

Some even may have a similar texture to skin which your child finds alluring.

It may also be that they like the process of peeling so you could offer them a sticker book so they can get that satisfying feeling there.

Use alternative communication

We will almost take it as a given that you have tried to verbally explain to your child why skin picking is undesirable.

If that is the case you could experiment with picture cards or even demonstrating on a stuffed animal or alike. You will need to try and convey the message that picking of the skin can lead to doctor or ‘hospital’ visits.

Aides such as emotion cards can also be helpful in explaining that when your child picks their skin it makes you sad.

Adjust the environment

If you believe your child picks their skin due to becoming overwhelmed you can adjust their environment to assist.

This could include dimming lights, turning down TV’s or changing air fresheners.

Even something such a providing your child with headphones may distract him or her from the activity.

Provide praise

If you do manage to divert your child from picking their skin be sure to provide them buckets of praise.

Even if your child’s communication and understanding is not at a level where you can have a conversation, a big smile and a hug will suffice.

Over time your child will start to associate the positivity with stopping the activity and therefore it will become easier for your to intervene.

Summary – How to stop skin picking autism

Skin picking is a common behaviour in children with autism.

Although common it’s important to understand the underlying reasons and to approach the behavior with compassion and understanding.

Parents can use the strategies above to help their child manage skin picking and break this repetitive behaviour.

With patience and support, children with autism can learn new coping skills and strategies to help with day to day life.