04/08/2026
✨ Rethinking “Repetitive Behaviors” in Autism ✨
Recent research review from the informed SLP, “Spinning and SpIn-ing: Re-framing restricted/repetitive behaviors and specific interests” shared directly from individuals with autistic and the benefit of their repetitive behaviors and special interests.
For a long time, behaviors like hand flapping, pacing, or intense interests were seen as something to stop. But research, and autistic voices, tell us something important: These behaviors are often helpful, not harmful.
Not all behaviors need to be “fixed.” Sometimes, they’re exactly what helps a child feel safe, calm, and understood.