Possible Replacement Behaviors

Child Has Been Sitting Too Long

Have child request a movement breakOffer alternative seating for the child, such as a chair vs. floor, sitting on a pillow, sitting on a small exercise ball, etc.Offer child a fidget toy to play with while sitting (something small and non-distracting that can keep his hands busy)

Child is Tired

Offer child a short nap (if possible)

Child is Excited

Replace with clapping handsReplace with squeezing hands together

Child is Angry/Upset

Replace with squeezing/biting/hitting a pillowHave child request break/go for a walkDo Self-Calming Strategies

Child is Flapping/Sensory Input in Fingers

Replace with squeezing hands or pushing hands togetherOffer child a stress ball or squeezable toy to play withReplace with child sitting on hands (to feel that pressure)

Child is Rocking/Sensory Input for Balance and Body

Have your child rock side to side instead of front to back. This looks more like swaying along to music than the traditional rocking. It’s also easier to keep his eyes on the teacher this way.Offer child a big hug, squeeze him tightly all over his torso to get that pressureHave child wear a tight vest or shirt. They make special sensory shirts that hug the torso with gentle pressure.Have your child request a break to go roll on the floor. Or, roll him up in a blanket like a burrito. He may miss a few minutes of whatever you were doing, but it will be worth it if he can focus when he gets back.

Child is Biting Himself/Sensory Input to Mouth

Replace with giving your child something to chew on. They make special jewelry that is designed for children to chew on, even big kids!Offer your child a bite to eat or a piece of gum.Offer your child a chewy, sour candy. This can alert the senses in the mouth.

Child is Biting His Arm/Sensory Input to Arm

If your child doesn’t respond to the mouth techniques, maybe he needs the sensory input in his arm. Try teaching him to squeeze his arm in that place or you can do it for him.

Child is Scratching Himself/Needs Deep Pressure Sensory Input

Try offering your child some deep pressure when he does this. That means, tight squeezes all over his body. You can also have him lay down and roll a big ball over his body. I’ve even lightly squished a child between two bean bags. Your child will tell you with his actions if he likes it or not. Don’t keep trying something he’s not comfortable with, but one of them may work.

Keep trying until you find one (or a few) that your child seems to respond  well to.  You may have to help your child do these things or do them for him for now.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=4304559&forum_id=2#38544622)