If you have an autistic child who keeps running back and forth you are not alone, it is a common behaviour.

In the below article we delve into the motivations behind the activity and what you can do.

Autism and running backwards and forwards

It is fair to say that all parents strive to comprehend and support our children’s unique needs and behaviours.

For those of us who have a child on the autism spectrum some of those behaviours can be a little more puzzling.

It is therefore crucial to gain insight into their world in order to understand their experiences.

One behaviour that can be perplexing to many parents is their child’s constant running back and forth.

Below, we will delve into this behaviour and explore why autistic children may engage in it.

Repetitive behaviours

Autism as we know is typically characterised by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours.

One of the more common repetitive behaviours often observed in autistic children is constant running back and forth.

While it may appear unusual or disruptive to others, it is essential to approach this behaviour with empathy and understanding.

Sensory processing

Autistic kids often experience sensory processing differences.

The world around them can be overwhelming, with sights, sounds, and textures bombarding their senses.

Running back and forth may serve as a self-regulation mechanism for managing this bombardment of their senses.

The rhythmic motion can provide a sense of comfort and help them regain control over their emotions and environment.

Stimming

It is likely that you are already aware of the term stimming.

But if you are not, stimming, short for self-stimulatory behaviour, is another common aspect of autism.

It involves repetitive movements or actions that autistic individuals engage in to self-soothe or regulate their sensory experiences.

Running back and forth can be a form of stimming, allowing children to release pent-up energy, reduce anxiety, and find a sense of calmness amidst a chaotic world.

Interacting with their environment

Autistic children often have a strong desire to explore their surroundings.

They may be drawn to certain objects, patterns, or spaces and find immense joy in interacting with them.

Running back and forth may be their way of exploring the environment, engaging with the physical aspects they find intriguing.

It offers them a chance to interact with their surroundings in a manner that aligns with their unique way of perceiving the world.

It could be something simple like the child likes the feeling of their feet slapping on the floor with each step.

Or it could be that they like the breeze of air in their face as they run.

It is that interaction with their surroundings which is what that could be craving and the running is them scratching that itch.

Communication and expression

Communication can be challenging for autistic individuals. Running back and forth may serve as a means of expression, a way for them to communicate their needs, desires, or feelings.

It may be for example that they are tired, bored or otherwise unhappy and the running back and forth is an attempt to demonstrate these feelings.

Predictability and routine

Autistic children often thrive on predictability and routine.

Repetitive behaviours, including running back and forth, can provide a sense of familiarity and order in their lives.

By engaging in these behaviours, they create a structured routine that helps them navigate their world and find comfort in an otherwise uncertain environment.

What can parents do?

Instead of viewing constant running back and forth as disruptive, we can seek ways to accommodate and channel this behaviour constructively.

It is important to provide safe spaces where our children can engage in their repetitive movements.

This could be creating a dedicated play area or introducing structured physical activities.

These measures can help them find appropriate outlets for their energy and sensory needs.

Another tactic to consider is to turn the running into a game in order to develop the child’s joint attention.

Parents could elect to run with them or count down to their next lap to make the activity a joint endeavor.

Parents could even manipulate the game into basic speech therapy by counting down or using the ready, steady, go method.

Summary – Autistic Child Running Back And Forth

As parents, it is essential to remember that every autistic child is unique, and their reasons for engaging in constant running back and forth may vary.

While it might be tempting to discourage or suppress such behaviour, it is crucial to approach it with a desire to understand our child’s needs.

Additionally, seeking guidance from professionals, such as occupational therapists or behavioural specialists, can offer valuable insights and strategies.

By working together with experts and leveraging their knowledge, we can create an environment that supports our child’s unique needs.

Overall lets approach the constant running back and forth of our autistic children with empathy and compassion.

We should strive to understand the reasons behind their behaviour and provide them with necessary support.