Understanding Sensory Behaviors in Children with Autism | Managing Hitting, Pinching, and Slapping in Nawanshahr
Many parents in Nawanshahr often ask,
Why does my child hit, pinch, suddenly slap, scratch, or push others during social gatherings or at home?
These actions are not just aggressive or naughty behaviors — they are often sensory-seeking behaviors in children, especially those with autism or sensory processing difficulties. In this article, we will examine the reasons behind these behaviors and guide how to manage them effectively.
Sensory behavior in children, Nawanshahr
What Are Sensory Behaviors?
These actions (like hitting, pinching, pushing) are a form of self-stimulation. A child may exhibit these behaviors when they are either overexcited or highly irritated. For them, these activities provide a kind of sensory satisfaction — it calms or stimulates them.
Stopping the child forcefully does not resolve the issue because the child is seeking sensory comfort. Imagine your child is extremely thirsty, but instead of giving them water, you offer food — it won’t help. Similarly, unless we replace the comfort they are getting from this behavior, it won’t change.
How to Handle Sensory Behaviors?
✅ Don’t just stop the behavior — Compensate it.
If a child is hitting or pinching, distract them immediately and provide deep pressure on their hands or arms. This offers a sensory substitute that is safe and calming.
✅ Be consistent and patient.
You may need to repeat this process multiple times a day, for months. Some children start showing improvements in 6 months; some may take a year. What matters most is your consistency and calm approach.
✅ Teach others, too.
Inform family members, teachers, and caregivers about how to distract and instantly compensate when the child behaves aggressively. Consistency across people makes a big difference.
Why Patience is the Key
This behavior won’t disappear overnight. Your child may repeat the hitting or pushing even after you compensate, and that’s okay. Keep repeating the method calmly. Over time, the behavior will reduce if handled positively and consistently.
Understand the Root Cause
Sensory behaviors are not intentional harm — they are often the result of:
Feeling irritated or overwhelmed
Not being able to express emotions verbally
Experiencing discomfort in noisy or crowded environments
As a parent, your understanding is your child's biggest strength. Losing your temper can worsen the situation. Instead, stay calm, observe, and try to see what your child is trying to communicate.
Autism therapy for aggressive behavior in Nawanshahr
Final Words
Managing sensory behaviors requires:
Empathy over anger
Substitution over suppression
Consistency over chaos
If you’re looking for professional help with sensory integration therapy in Nawanshahr, we’re here to support you and your child every step of the way.
