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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Any tips for stopping an embarrassing repetitive behavior?

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Larkspur, CO

My 11-year-old daughter with PDD-NOS has had physical and verbal ticks over the years. They can be a bit annoying, but they tend to go away after a few weeks. Currently, she is grabbing her crotch. She is oblivious, so I worry that she could be a target for ridicule at school. What have other parents tried to reduce, eliminate or at least substitute repetitive behavior?

April 28, 2012
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Answer Summary

Parents shared practical strategies for managing repetitive behaviors and tics in children with autism and related conditions, with the... Read more

Parents shared practical strategies for managing repetitive behaviors and tics in children with autism and related conditions, with the understanding that these behaviors often shift or resolve naturally over time. Several members recommended sensory tools and redirections including chewable necklaces, gum, tootsie pops, frozen washcloths, squishy balls, fidgets, velcro desk strips, songs with similar sounds, and physical activities like jumping jacks or walks to keep hands and mouths occupied. A recurring theme was combining gentle reminders with clear explanations about privacy and social appropriateness, while also consulting occupational and physical therapists for personalized techniques and maintaining acceptance of the child throughout the process.

A MyAutismTeam Member

I agree busy or active, such as exercise. Our son even was rubbing himself on our neighbors driveway and also on the teachers desk at school. We use jumping jacks and jumping on the mini tramp. Even going for walks. If it gets really bad, we send him to his room. At school his teachers know that he keeps him hands on his desk and out of his pockets. You could even look into having a squishy ball or toy for her to play with. Hopefully these get your ideas flowing for what would work best for her, Best of Luck.

April 30, 2012
A MyAutismTeam Member

@A MyAutismTeam Member You can wet a washcloth and let him chew on that, or for even more sensory input put the washcloth in the freezer for a few hours. Good luck!

May 15, 2012 (edited)
A MyAutismTeam Member

@A MyAutismTeam Member same issue with me. My son is 8. I give him gum. And sometimes a tootsie pop.

April 10, 2013 (edited)
A MyAutismTeam Member

@A MyAutismTeam Member? Which medication?? My son recently developed significant Tics - twitch that I think is due to Rispiderone. Going to MD today.

April 10, 2013 (edited)
A MyAutismTeam Member

Thank you. :) He gets a wash cloth now and then, picking up the little strings is not fun but it does save the clothing. The school does not feel it is appropriate. :/ I had not thought of putting it in the freezer or wetting it. I will give it a try, maybe I will get less strings. :)

May 15, 2012

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