As a licensed practitioner who works closely with kids, I’ve seen firsthand how various behaviors can be signs of autism or other neurodevelopmental differences. One such behavior is the repetitive rubbing of feet together, often called “cricket feet” or “cricking.” While this action may seem unusual to some, it’s a common self-soothing technique that many kids with autism use to regulate their sensory input and find comfort in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Table of Contents
Understanding Stimming Behaviors in Autism
Stimming, short for self-stimulatory behavior, is common among kids with autism and other neurodevelopmental differences. These repetitive actions or movements can take many forms, such as hand-flapping, rocking back and forth, or, in this case, rubbing feet together. While the exact reasons for stimming may vary from child to child, it generally serves as a way to cope with overwhelming sensory input, manage anxiety, or express excitement or joy.
According to a study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, up to 94% of children with autism engage in some form of stimming behavior. This high prevalence highlights the importance of understanding and accepting these actions as a natural part of neurodiversity rather than trying to suppress or eliminate them.
The Sensory Aspect of Cricket Feet
For many kids with autism, the world can feel like a constant barrage of sensory information. Sights, sounds, textures, and even smells can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of anxiety or discomfort. Rubbing feet together can provide a soothing sensory input that helps to counteract these feelings and create a sense of calm.
The repetitive motion of cricket feet can also serve as a form of proprioceptive input, which helps kids with autism better understand their body’s position in space. This increased body awareness can be grounding and help them feel more secure in their environment.
Goally | The Tablet for Neurodiverse Kids
When Cricking May Occur
Kids with autism may engage in cricket feet behavior in various situations, particularly when feeling anxious, agitated, or overstimulated. This could be during times of transition, such as when leaving the house for school or navigating a crowded grocery store. It may also occur when they’re feeling excited or happy, as stimming can be a way to express and regulate positive emotions.
It’s important to note that not all kids with autism will exhibit cricket feet behavior, and some may only do so in specific situations. As a caregiver, paying attention to when and where your child engages in this action can provide valuable insights into their emotional state and sensory needs.
Supporting Kids Who Rub Their Feet Together
If your child engages in cricket feet behavior, the most important thing you can do is to accept and support them. Remember that stimming is a natural and necessary part of their self-regulation process, and trying to stop or discourage it can lead to increased anxiety and stress.
Read more: My Child is Stimming When Excited | Not Autism
Instead, focus on creating a safe and accepting environment where your child feels comfortable expressing themselves. This may include:
- Providing sensory-friendly spaces at home, such as a quiet corner with soft textures and calming colors
- Incorporating sensory breaks into their daily routine, allowing them time to engage in stimming behaviors as needed
- Advocating for accommodations at school, such as fidget toys or noise-canceling headphones, to help manage sensory input
- Educating others, including family members and teachers, about the importance of accepting and supporting stimming behaviors
When to Seek Professional Guidance
While cricket feet behavior is generally harmless and can be a helpful coping mechanism, there may be times when it’s necessary to seek professional guidance. Suppose the stimming interferes with your child’s daily life, causing them physical discomfort or leading to social challenges. In that case, it’s essential to consult with a qualified specialist, such as an occupational therapist or autism expert.
These professionals can work with you and your child to develop strategies for managing sensory input, building coping skills, and navigating social situations. They may also recommend additional resources or support services to help your family thrive. So Is rubbing your feet together autism?
Goally | Visual Scheduler for Autism
Does your child struggle with getting ready in the morning independently? Goally’s routine app on the best tablet for kids breaks down large tasks into small, achievable steps for autistic kids. Create custom routines with your own videos & pictures for every step.
In conclusion, rubbing feet together, or cricket feet, is a common stimming behavior among autistic kids. As a self-soothing technique, it helps them regulate sensory input, manage anxiety, and express emotions. By accepting and supporting this behavior, caregivers can create a safe, nurturing environment that allows their child to thrive. Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Trust your instincts, seek guidance when needed, and celebrate your child’s neurodiversity.
Helpful Resources
FAQ’s About Is Rubbing Your Feet Together a Sign of Autism
Is rubbing feet together a common behavior in children with autism?
Yes, rubbing feet together, also known as "cricket feet" or "cricking," is a common self-soothing behavior among children with autism.
What does rubbing feet together help with for kids with autism?
Rubbing feet together can help children with autism regulate sensory input, manage anxiety, and express emotions in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.
When might a child with autism engage in cricket feet behavior?
A child with autism may rub their feet together when feeling anxious, agitated, or overstimulated, particularly during times of transition or in sensory-challenging environments.
Should parents try to stop their child from rubbing their feet together?
No, parents should not try to stop or discourage cricket feet behavior, as it is a natural and necessary part of their child's self-regulation process.
How can parents support their child who engages in cricket feet behavior?
Parents can support their child by creating a safe and accepting environment, providing sensory-friendly spaces, incorporating sensory breaks into their daily routine, and advocating for accommodations at school.
Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.
