Why do kids with autism stim? Links to anxiety, sensory processing
Stimming usually involves repetitive behaviors, motions or sounds. This article outlines research pointing at anxiety and sensory processing as root causes.
Self-stimulation
The magic carpet to help your child with tactile defensiveness
Children on the autism spectrum usually have difficulties with the sense of touch, or tactile defensiveness. This may lead to rituals or aversions in clothing, food, flooring.