Does Your Child Seek Sensory Input in Unsafe Ways? Here's What to Do.

If your child with autism is constantly seeking sensory input in ways that stress you out—like spinning until they fall or crashing into walls—it’s not just nervewracking, it can also be dangerous. Sensory-seeking is a real and important need for many children, especially those with autism or sensory processing differences. But when that need is met through unsafe behaviors, it’s time to step in. Not to stop the behavior completely, but to redirect it in a way that’s both stimulating and safe.

Below we will review some ways that you can redirect unsafe sensory-seeking behaviors into safe, structured activities that still meet your child’s needs.

What Is Sensory-Seeking Behavior?

Sensory-seeking behavior happens when a child craves specific types of sensory input, such as movement, pressure, sound, or touch. Common examples include:

• Spinning until they’re dizzy
• Crashing into people or walls
• Jumping off furniture
• Chewing on non-food items
• Constantly touching or grabbing things

Children with autism may engage in these behaviors more frequently and intensely. While these actions help them regulate their bodies, they can also put them at risk of injury.

How to Redirect Unsafe Sensory-Seeking Behaviors

Instead of saying “no” or “stop,” offer your child an appropriate alternative that still meets their sensory needs. Here are some safe sensory activities that you can redirect your child toward:

• Spinning → Provide a sit-and-spin toy, swivel chair, or use a safe outdoor swing.
• Crashing → Create a “crash pad” using couch cushions, foam mats, or a beanbag chair. You can even turn it into a fun game! (This is our favorite crash pad)
• Jumping → Offer a mini trampoline with handles or set up a pillow pile to jump into.
• Chewing → Try chewable necklaces or oral motor tools made for sensory input.
• Pushing/Pulling → Give them a heavy bin to push, pull a wagon, or carry a weighted backpack.

The goal isn’t to remove the sensory input, but to reframe it into an activity that’s safe and still satisfying.

When to Step In with a Safe Alternative

Watch for signs of sensory-seeking. Children will often show patterns of seeking input when they're:

• Feeling dysregulated
• Bored or under-stimulated
• Transitioning between activities
• Overwhelmed or anxious

Watch for repetitive behaviors like spinning in circles, crashing into furniture, or jumping off unsafe surfaces. These are your cues to step in with a safe sensory alternative before the behavior escalates.

Why Redirection Works 

Redirecting sensory-seeking behaviors allows your child to meet their needs without risking injury. It also teaches them which strategies are acceptable and effective, skills they’ll carry into the future. Safe sensory outlets also reduce meltdowns and frustration, because your child is still getting the stimulation their body craves.

When we support their sensory needs in safe, structured ways, we’re not just preventing accidents, we’re also helping them feel calmer, more focused, and more in control of their own bodies.

You don’t need to eliminate sensory-seeking behavior, you just need to guide it. By offering safe and satisfying alternatives, you empower your child to meet their needs in a way that works for both of you. Whether it’s a crash pad in the living room or a daily trampoline break, a little creativity can go a long way toward turning chaos into calm.

Need help figuring out what your child needs and how to keep them safe?
We offer one-on-one Parent Coaching to help you create personalized solutions that work in your home. Learn more here.