Being a parent of an autistic child can be challenging, in this article we explain why your autistic son may like to throw everything he can get his hands on.

Autism and throwing

Parents in our position are all aware of autistic children’s, at times slightly bizzare behaviour.

One common behaviour observed in some autistic kids is the tendency to throw objects.

While this may be perplexing or challenging for parents and teachers, it is essential to recognise that there are underlying reasons behind this fascination.

By understanding the motivations behind throwing behaviours, we can better support and guide autistic children.

The ultimate goal is to steer them to engage in more appropriate and constructive activities.

Sensory exploration

For many autistic children, throwing objects can be a way to explore the sensory world around them.

The act of throwing provides a tactile experience, involving the movement of muscles and joints, and the sensation of objects leaving their hands.

The accompanying visual feedback and sound of objects hitting a surface can also contribute to sensory stimulation.

As challenging as it may be for parents it can actually be soothing or satisfying for some children with autism.

Predictable experience

Autistic children may engage in throwing behaviours as a means of exerting control over their environment.

By intentionally initiating the action of throwing an object, they can experience a sense of predictability and skill.

This control over the trajectory, force, and outcome of the object can provide a reassuring experience for them.

In a way it may be a soothing way in which they can control one aspect of an otherwise uncertain life.

Communication issues

Communication challenges are a hallmark of autism, and some children may use throwing as a means of expressing themselves or gaining attention.

The act of throwing objects can serve as a nonverbal way to convey emotions, desires, or frustrations.

It may be a form of communication that they have found to be effective in capturing the attention of others.

They have in-turn learnt that the act can lead to responses or interactions that they seek.

A method of play

For some autistic children, throwing behaviours may stem from difficulties in understanding social norms or engaging in appropriate play activities.

They may not fully grasp the concept of object use or the intended purpose of certain objects.

Thus, they may resort to throwing objects as a way to explore or interact with their environment.

Guiding them through structured play and teaching appropriate object use can help redirect their focus and expand their play skills.

Repetitive regulation

Throwing objects can also serve as a form of self-regulation for autistic children.

The repetitive and rhythmic nature of the throwing motion can help them manage sensory overload or anxiety.

It may provide a temporary release of tension or a way to redirect their focus when feeling overwhelmed.

The act of throwing may offer a comforting and calming effect, allowing them to self-soothe and regulate their emotions.

Summary – Why does my autistic son throw everything?

The inclination of autistic children to engage in throwing behaviours can be attributed to various underlying factors.

These factors include sensory exploration and challenges in social understanding.

It is important for parents, teachers, and professionals to approach these behaviours with empathy and understanding.

By identifying the motivations behind throwing behaviours, appropriate interventions can be implemented.

These interventions can redirect these tendencies towards more constructive and socially acceptable activities.

Through patient guidance and support, we can help autistic children develop alternative coping strategies and foster their and development.