"For the Lord is a God of Knowledge, and by him actions are weighed"
1 Samuel 2:3

Stereotypic Actions

Stereotypic actions or self-stimulatory behaviors are often called 'stims.' These are repetitive movements such as hand-flapping, tossing items, repeated sounds or phrases or words. Watch as Joseph converses with me about stims:1

Stims are used to regulate and defend one's self again sensory bombardment.2  However, if continued for too long with excitement, they can result in emotional outburst and dis-regulation.3

Ideas to Help Individuals Manage Emotional Stereotypic Actions:

1-You can distract with other sensory input such as help them draw something you are talking about, hand them something to hold and fidget with (keep these items appropriate for their age)

2-Avoid emotional topics when possible for some individuals and incorporate less emotional topics that include facts, stories, poetry or rhythmic voice.4 

3-Remind them they are getting emotional and could get 'stuck' in their stim, so encourage them to be quieter.

4-Modulate voice or talking in a quieter voice can help situations.5
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5-In one on one religious settings back and forth exchange with balanced student and teacher participation can help them regulate a bit better.6

Q&A: What information can you tell about stimming and possibly some stims you do?

"WELL, I STIM FOR ONE OF TWO REASONS. EITHER I’M BEING BOMBARDED WITH SENSORY STUFF AND SO I LEAVE AND DO MY OWN THING IN MY MIND OR BODY--I CALM MYSELF THIS WAY. (STOPPING ME ISN’T NICE OR COMPASSIONATE.) OR I’M SO BORED THAT I MAKE MY OWN FUN WITH A STIM. TELLING THE DIFFERENCE IS KEY. STRESS STIMS MAY HAVE FAR MORE URGENCY IN APPEARANCE AND ENTERTAINING ONES ARE MORE RELAXED.
I PACE AND RELEASE ENERGY WITH VERBAL MARTIAN SOUNDS AND I WHISPER SELF TALK. WHOA TO THE PERSON WHO REPEATS ONE OF THOSE WORDS. THEY HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH MY WANTS OR NEEDS."
-Matteo, Age 15, California, USA

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References:

1-Beukelman, D.R., Mirenda, P. (2005). Augmentative & Alternative Communication (Pg. 277). Baltimore: Paul H. Brooks Publishing
2-Mukhopadhyay, S. (2013), Developing Communication for Autism Using Rapid Prompting Method: Guide For Effective Language. (Pg. 70). Denver: Outskirts Press, Inc. 
​3-Mukhopadhyay, S. (2016). Developing Expressive Language in Verbal Students with Autism Using Rapid Prompting Method. (pg. 12-18). Denver: Outskirts Press Inc.
4-Mukhopadhyay, S. (2008). Understanding Autism through Rapid Prompting Method. (Pg. 214-215). Denver: Outskirts Press, Inc.
5-Mukhopadhyay, S. (2013), Developing Communication for Autism Using Rapid Prompting Method: Guide For Effective Language. (Pg. 71). Denver: Outskirts Press, Inc. 
6-Mukhopadhyay, S. (2013), Developing Communication for Autism Using Rapid Prompting Method: Guide For Effective Language. (Pg. 71). Denver: Outskirts Press, Inc.