Hand Flapping & Autism

Autism can result in a vast array of symptoms.

One of the most common and easily recognizable is referred to as stimming.

This is when a person repeats an action, such as rocking back and forth while sitting.

One example of stimming is hand posturing. Another is hand flapping.

Stimming and Hand Flapping

Stimming is a short-hand word for “self-stimulation.”

It refers to repetitive sounds and movements that people with autism sometimes do to help them adapt to their environments.

Plenty of kids without autism also flap their hands, but they generally outgrow this behavior by the time they're three years old.

These can be subtle, but in the case of hand flapping, it’s readily noticeable. 

What Does Hand Flapping Look Like?

Hand flapping is exactly what it sounds like.

It can result in a child moving fingers vigorously, moving their arms, or clicking their fingers. 

It is possible for a child to engage in the activity so vigorously that they injure a muscle.

It can be triggered by fidgeting, nervousness, or excitement. 

Is Hand Flapping Normal or Autism?

Plenty of kids without autism also flap their hands, but they generally outgrow this behavior by the time they're three years old.

If this behavior persists past the age of three, it may be a sign of autism but it is not indicative of autism on its own.

Many toddlers become stimulated due to being happy, anxious, or angry.

Neurotypical children may engage in hand flapping for the same reasons as someone with autism – they’re in a heightened emotional state and don’t know how to express that any other way. 

Is Hand Flapping Always Autism?

Hand flapping on its own is not always indicative of autism.

Many toddlers become stimulated due to being happy, anxious, or angry.

Most children outgrow this behavior by three years old or after a few months of doing it. 

It’s a way for them to regulate their emotions, but while most kids grow out of it, children with autism may continue doing this behavior, in addition to other forms of stimming, well into adolescence. 

When May Hand Flapping Indicate Autism?

Hand flapping may suggest something like autism if it carries on beyond the child’s third birthday.

Additionally, hand flapping may be tied to autism if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, including:

• Avoiding eye contact
• Difficult building friendships
• Preferring to be alone
• Blunted facial expressions
• Not responding to their names by 12 months
• Not understanding personal space or boundaries

At What Age is Hand Flapping a Concern?

Hand flapping can be common in early developmental stages.

To determine if a further diagnosis is needed, parents should pay attention to how long it lasts.

Most children outgrow this behavior by three years old or after a few months of doing it. 

Additionally, it may not be a concern if the child only flaps their hands once in a blue moon.

When is Hand Flapping a Problem?

Hand flapping and other forms of stimming are really only a problem if they result in self-harm.

Some children may engage in the behavior so significantly they hurt their arms.

It can also be troublesome if it prevents the child from engaging in day-to-day activities.

It can limit the use of their hands, and if they’re not careful while holding something sharp, they could hurt themselves or others. 

Tips to Reduce Hand Flapping

Research has shown how physical activity can lessen stimming in people with autism.

Even exercising a few minutes a day can help significantly.

Parents may also aim to create safe environments for their kids. Stimming may worsen when a child experiences stress and anxiety.

While parents can’t control every facet of their child’s life, they can work to ensure the home is as quiet and peaceful as possible. 

It’s also possible to replace stimming with other behaviors.

Fidget toys, balls, and “theraputty” can give kids something to do with their hands so that they’re less inclined to flap. 

Overall, stimming can be reduced when a child learns how to regulate their emotions.

This is where early therapy options, including applied behavioral analysis, come in handy. 

References:

https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/behaviour/common-concerns/stimming-asd

https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/foot-tapping-hand-flapping-why-do-people-stim-0104194