Recently, I came across a compelling clip of Temple Grandin, a well-known author, scientist, and autism advocate, discussing her sensory experiences growing up. She described how, as a child, she would rock and let sand run through her hands to help block overwhelming sounds and sensations. She explained that she did this “to shut out a hurtful world.”
For many young children, particularly those with sensory processing differences, stimming—repetitive movements or behaviors such as rocking, hand flapping, or fidgeting—can serve an important purpose. Stimming can help regulate emotions, reduce stress, or provide comforting sensory input. Grandin highlights that these behaviors should not be viewed as negative or eliminated entirely.
However, she also raises a key point: when children are allowed to stim constantly, the brain may become closed off from the world around them. In the clip, she shared that her caregivers recognized this balance early on. She was given an hour each day to stim freely, but was supported in staying engaged and involved during the rest of the day. The goal wasn’t to stop her from stimming, but to help her build tolerance for new experiences and environments without becoming overwhelmed.
Grandin emphasizes the importance of a quiet, supportive environment where children can take in information. For many children, especially those facing sensory challenges, too much noise, chaos, or sensory overload can make learning difficult. Providing thoughtful structure, sensory breaks, and predictable routines can help them stay present and process what’s going on around them.
Her message encourages a balanced approach:
Honor a child’s need to stim. These behaviors serve a purpose and help regulate the nervous system.
Support children in staying connected. Gentle limits, quiet environments, and structured opportunities can help them access new learning and experiences.
Stay observant and responsive. Every child is different, and what helps one child may not be the right approach for another.
Grandin’s reflections shed light on a question many caregivers ask: When should we allow stimming, and when should we guide children toward engagement?
Her answer is simple—the goal is not to eliminate stimming, but to help children participate in the world without becoming overwhelmed.
For families monitoring developmental milestones, this message serves as a reminder that building regulation and tolerance takes time, patience, and individualized support.
