The colourful grid of everyday stimming examples helps people spot actions that may otherwise be dismissed as habits, fidgeting or being restless. It names common self-stimulatory behaviours such as tapping, humming, rocking, repeating phrases, doodling, pacing and seeking textures, making it a handy visual for conversations about autism, ADHD, sensory needs and self-regulation.
Stimming as emotional, attentional and sensory regulation is the central theme of this one-page poster. It briefly explains that stimming is natural, especially common for autistic people and people with ADHD, while also noting that everyone stims sometimes.
The poster lists a wide range of familiar behaviours, including chewing pens or clothing, tapping fingers or feet, twirling hair, listening to the same song repeatedly, bouncing a knee, flapping hands, spinning, squeezing a pillow or stress ball, and adjusting clothes or shoes.
Less obvious examples are included too, such as playing with zips or hoodie strings, picking at nails or cuticles, tracing patterns, lining up objects, opening and closing apps repeatedly, rearranging objects, pressing against furniture, and rubbing fabrics or textures.
Parents, carers, teachers, SEN staff, social workers and therapists may find it useful with children, teenagers or adults who are exploring autistic traits, ADHD, sensory processing needs or fidgeting behaviours. It can support discussions without shame, helping people identify what they do, when it happens, and whether it helps them cope, focus or calm their body.
