Repetitiveness in Toddlers

Many toddlers have a penchant for repetition. This behavior can be amusing, annoying or hardly noticeable. Some children who display repetitive behaviors are exhibiting normal signs of development, while in other children repetitive behaviors are an indication of a developmental disorder, such as autism. Parents and caregivers may be concerned with toddler's repetitive behaviors. Careful observation and an understanding of child development can assist parents and caregivers in determining whether a child's repetitive behaviors are a cause for alarm.

  1. Types of Repetitive Behavior

    • Toddlers are at a stage of development in which they are learning about the world and about their bodies at a rapid pace. Toddlers do not all posses the verbal ability to express their thoughts and feelings in a manner that adults can understand. Toddlers may engage in the following repetitive behaviors: Eye poking, hand flapping, rocking, light gazing, head shaking, dancing, playing with the same toys over and over again, jumping and talking. Repetitive behaviors such as these could possibly indicate that the child is developing abnormally.

    Typical Repetitive Behavior

    • Young children may say the same thing over and over again. Toddlers may also choose to repeat a task over and over again because they are glad to have mastered it. Children may also ask their parents to perform a task over and over again, such as spin me, or sing the song again. These behaviors, though sometimes annoying, are common in typically developing toddlers.

    Abnormal Repetitive Behavior

    • Repetitive behaviors may be a sign of autism. Children with autism may react to sensory experiences differently than other children; they may be preoccupied with the way repetitive experiences make them feel. Hand flapping, wiggling fingers in front of their own eyes, making repetitive sounds instead of words, jumping, clenching, blinking and hair twisting are repetitive behaviors that can be signs of autism. Children may repeat these behaviors when excited, upset or may even learn not to display these behaviors in public.

    What Should Parents Do?

    • Parents of toddlers who display repetitive behaviors should write down their observations of their toddler's unusual behaviors. This information should be shared with both the child's pediatrician and a speech and language pathologist. These experts can assess the child to determine whether the behavior is considered developmentally appropriate or is indicative of autism. If the professionals conclude that the child has the characteristics of autism, an educational plan will be developed for the child. If the professionals determine the child has been displaying age appropriate repetitive behaviors, parents can take several steps to alleviate the disruption caused by repetitiveness. Refrain from giving the child negative attention; this may reinforce the behavior. Communicate with other family members, friends and caregivers about the need to positively encourage the child not to display repetitive behaviors.

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