Stim, Stim, Stimmy, Stim, Stim
What is Stimming?
Stimming is an inclusive human behaviour. We all stim. Both children and adults. We stim through the repetition of physical movements, movement of objects, and sound.
The way we may twirl our hair, click a pen, or tap our feet, are all stims.
The word ‘stimming’ is short for self-stimulatory behaviour. It’s a way of giving ourselves input or even blocking out an excessive, sensory input.
As mentioned above, everybody stims. Autistic and other Neurodivergent people may use stimming behaviours more often. Some types of stims, like hand flapping or rocking, are more common among Autistics and these are part of Autistic culture.
Stimming can have some very valuable functions.
Nurse, Sleep Pract, Yogi | As a nurse educator, my work is centred on children’s mental health, specializing in supporting Autistic/ND kids and their families.
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