Understanding Sensory Seeking in Autistic Children: Why it Happens and How to Support It

If your child frequently jumps, spins, climbs, or crashes into things, it can be hard to know what’s going on – especially if they don’t seem able to stop, even when asked. But this kind of behaviour often has a reason, and for many autistic children, it’s a way of managing their sensory needs.

What is Sensory Seeking?

Sensory seeking is when a child actively looks for intense sensory input – for example, through movement, pressure, sound, or touch – because their body needs that information to feel balanced and alert.

You might see this through behaviours like:

• Jumping or bouncing off furniture

• Spinning in circles

• Touching everything within reach

• Making loud noises or humming constantly

• Craving spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods

It’s important to know that these behaviours are not a sign of bad behaviour, defiance, or lack of discipline. They are your child’s way of coping with how their brain and body process the world around them.

When Does Sensory Seeking Increase?

Sensory seeking can become more noticeable when a child is:

• Overwhelmed

• Excited

• Anxious

• Trying to concentrate

In these moments, their body is looking for ways to regulate itself. What may look like restlessness or “acting out” is usually an attempt to feel more grounded or in control.

How to Support a Sensory Seeking Child

You don’t need to stop these behaviours. The aim is to meet the sensory need in a way that is safe and manageable. Some strategies include:

1. Offer appropriate sensory input throughout the day

Regular movement breaks, deep pressure play, or heavy work (like carrying things or pushing against resistance) can help keep their nervous system regulated.

2. Create a sensory-friendly space

This could be a quiet area with calming items like a weighted blanket, fidget toys, noise-reducing headphones, or a small trampoline if space allows.

3. Speak to an occupational therapist

An OT can help assess your child’s sensory profile and develop a tailored plan, sometimes called a “sensory diet”, that supports their individual needs.

The Importance of Redirection – Not Restriction

If a child is crashing into walls, jumping constantly, or chewing things they shouldn’t, try to redirect rather than shut it down. For example, if they need to crash, a pile of cushions or a crash mat may help. If they’re chewing sleeves, a safe chew toy or necklace might be more appropriate.

When we understand that these behaviours serve a purpose, it becomes easier to respond with support rather than frustration.

Sensory seeking is a valid and important part of many autistic children’s lives. It’s not attention-seeking. It’s self-regulation.

By noticing the signs and meeting those needs in a safe and structured way, we can help our children feel calmer, more focused, and better understood.

If this sounds familiar in your home, you’re not alone. There is support available, and with the right strategies, these behaviours can become easier to manage – for both you and your child.