Pinching and Autism: When to Worry and How to Help

To many parents, some of the most frustrating behaviors of children with autism involve constant pinching, grabbing, poking, and prodding. This type of pinching behavior is common for kids on the spectrum and can happen for a variety of reasons.

Some kids pinch because they crave sensory input. For these children, pinching provides a pleasurable or calming sensation that helps them cope with their environment. Pinching can also be a way for children with autism to express excitement, happiness, or other emotions they struggle to communicate. For nonverbal children especially, pinching may serve as a substitute for hugging, high-fiving, or other gestures.

Repetitive pinching could also indicate that a child is seeking attention or reacting to anxiety, frustration, or confusion. Kids with autism often have trouble expressing their needs and feelings with words. So pinching others may be a way to get needs met or to relieve tension. This behavior may then become habitual over time.

To address your child’s pinching, first try to determine the trigger and purpose behind it. Keep a log of when and where the pinching occurs to look for patterns. Then take steps to provide alternate ways for your child to fulfill the need driving the pinching. This could mean giving sensory toys, using visual schedules, minimizing anxiety, or teaching communication skills. Be consistent with consequences if pinching continues. Say a brief, calm “no” and redirect your child to an appropriate activity. Over time, try to catch your child being good and reward that. With patience, consistency and the right supports, you can help your child gain skills to communicate needs in positive ways instead of resorting to pinching behavior.