It is often a question when a child is seen spinning the wheels of a toy car or fixating on ceiling fans by their parent. While it may seem bizarre to a neurotypical mind, these behaviors for children on the autism spectrum are usually very natural and even vital. This blog looks into autism and the spinning of objects, what spinning is all about, and how caregivers can accept the spin-dance away from concern toward constructive responses when their child exhibits spinning behavior.
Why Do Autistic Children Spin Objects?
Spinning is one kind of self-stimulating behavior, also called "stimming." Stimming encompasses any repetitive movement or sound: hand-flapping, rocking, lining up toys, and yes-spinning objects. These behaviors serve different purposes with autism:
- To regulate sensory needs
- To calm emotions
- To focus attention
- To express excitement or stress
When taken into consideration, spinning will provide some level of predictable and calming visual or vestibular stimulation aiding the child in gaining a sense of control over the environment.
For example, watching a spinning ceiling fan or spinning a wheel over and over may deliver electronically opposite sensory input across the board, helping the child to self-regulate when actually they feel overwhelmed by too much noise, bright lights, or social demands.
Is Spinning a Cause for Concern?
Spinning in itself is not, within itself, a concern. Shift your focus from, "What is wrong?" to, "What need does this meet for my child?"
However, when spinning:
- Prevents the child from relating to others
- Supersedes all other forms of play
- Creates distress when put to a stop
- Endangers the child or causes harm
…then a gentle suggestion or intervention towards exploring other supportive options may be advisable. But remember: the idea is not to stop the behavior; it is to attempt to understand it and offer alternatives for meeting that need in safe and constructive ways.
How To Respond Supportively
If you're navigating the world of autism and spinning objects, here are effective and compassionate strategies to support your child:
1. Observe Without Judgment
Take time to observe the behavior:
- When does your child spin objects most?
- What are they feeling at the time?
- Is it linked to stress, joy, boredom, or transitions?
Your observations can help decode whether the behavior is sensory-seeking, emotional regulation, or both.
2. Create a Safe Space to Spin
Instead of trying to eliminate the behavior, make it safe:
- Use child-safe fidget spinners
- Provide sensory-friendly toys that incorporate spinning parts
- Allow time in the daily routine for regulated stimming
This way, your child can still meet their sensory needs without harm or disruption.
3. Introduce Alternative Sensory Activities
Sometimes spinning is a way to satisfy visual or vestibular needs. Offer similar inputs that can help redirect the behavior while still honoring the sensory experience, such as:
- Swinging or spinning in a chair
- Watching a sensory bottle with glitter
- Blowing and watching pinwheels
- Using turntables or Lazy Susans
Experiment with these tools to find what resonates most with your child.
4. Use Visual Supports and Social Stories
Helping your child understand when and where spinning is appropriate can be done through visual schedules, timers, and social stories. For example:
“After dinner, you can spin your fidget spinner for 5 minutes before bedtime.”
This provides structure without making the child feel like their behavior is wrong.
5. Celebrate Interests, Don't Shame Them
For many autistic children, spinning isn’t just a stim — it’s a deep interest. Some may become fascinated by rotation, machinery, fans, or wheels. Instead of discouraging this, consider ways to build on it:
- Introduce educational content related to motion or engineering
- Use spinning as a reward or calming tool
- Include it in play or learning activities
These steps can validate your child’s passions while encouraging broader engagement.
6. Consult an Occupational Therapist (OT)
If spinning behavior is interfering with daily function, an OT trained in sensory integration can be incredibly helpful. They can develop personalized strategies for managing sensory needs and teach your child other ways to self-regulate.
Final Thoughts
Spinning objects is a common and meaningful behavior for many on the autism spectrum. Instead of reacting with concern or trying to “fix” it, recognize it as a form of communication — a language of the senses. The key to supporting your child lies in respectfully responding to their needs, offering safe alternatives, and creating a world where their unique ways of interacting are accepted and celebrated.
By understanding the connection between autism and spinning objects, we can move away from judgment and toward empathy, connection, and empowerment.
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