Toddlers: 24 Months+

2 year old flapping hands

Is It normal to flap hands when frustrated or excited? When she was a baby I thought it was normal and thought she outgrew from it because I hardly noticed it it a few months ago. Now she does it again quite often, usually when she has to wait for something or is trying to make me do something for her. I haven't noticed anything other unusual, she is already speaking quite well, is interested in peers, etc,. Worried still this might be related to autism.. 

Re: 2 year old flapping hands

  • Todat I asked her what she is doing and she stopped it for a second, replied me happily "flapping my hands" and continued. 
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  • This is still normal behavior, my LO will do it on occasion when excited or angry. 2 yr olds still love sensory and movement, and still don’t know what to do with their limbs when feeling emotions. 

    I’ve worked with autistic children and hand flapping is a form of stimming, usually for coping or when they are feeling all kinds of emotions. And stimming is very repetitive. Most aren’t even aware that they are flapping their hands. If your LO is hitting all the milestones and isn’t showing any cognitive delays, there is no reason to be concerned. But if you have questions, talk to your pediatrician and they can evaluate your LO. Remember, if it is autism then don’t worry too much. It may bring extra adjustments but it’s the same LO you love and adore. Hope all goes well! 
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