10/07/2026
One of the most common questions parents ask is, “My child with autism pinches a lot. What should I do?”
So here is the answer pinching can occur for different reasons. In many children, it is related to sensory processing difficulties, where the child is seeking sensory input.
In such cases, an individualized sensory integration program under the guidance of an occupational therapist, along with regular sensory exercises at home, can help reduce the behavior over time.
But the simple exercise that any parent can do with their kids at home is with Theraputty to reduce it.
If pinching is a behavioral habit, the approach is different. Avoid shouting or punishing the child. Instead, calmly stop the pinching, prevent it from continuing, and immediately redirect your child to another appropriate activity. Consistent redirection teaches the child a more appropriate way to engage while gradually reducing the unwanted behavior.
Remember, every child is different. Before trying to stop a behavior, understand why it is happening. The right intervention depends on the cause, not just the behavior itself.
Watch the video to learn how to respond effectively and support your child’s development. 💙
