self-stim behavior

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Home : 2004 : September : 24

self-stim behavior
By D

Hi, I teach primary autistic support. I agree with most of the suggestions given except for the opinion on the self-stim behavior. Yes, it's common and your going to see it. But, I definitely think it's important to target
these behaviors. These things cause the students to stand out, interfering with social acceptance & attention to task. Redirection is a start. But, we use social stories & scripts describing appropriate behavior. Usually I break up their day into small parts & target one period of time to reduce the stim behavior & then build. During instruction I provide fidgits to limit down time.

So your shaping the stim. They may not be aloud to flap but, they can squeeze the ball. I provide a designated time or spot where they are aloud to do this without interference. Then change the "aloud" activities to more socially appropriate activities by providing sensory toys. Also, give them things to do that are incompatable with the behavior- Ex. While transitioning in the hall give the student something to carry. You have to define what behavior you want them to do instead & teach the incompatable behavior. Ex. It's more socially acceptable to swing your arms at your sides while your walking than to flap. Then, it will be easier to shape that into hands in your pockets. Good luck!