How do I spot under-seeking when my child crashes, spins or chews constantly? 

Parenting Perspective 

Some children engage in behaviours such as crashing into cushions, spinning in circles, or chewing objects not out of mischief but as a way to self regulate sensory needs.¹ When a child exhibits constant movement or oral stimulation, it can signal that they are under seeking sensory input, trying to activate or organise their nervous system to feel alert, focused, or calm. Recognising these patterns allows parents to respond with structured support rather than frustration or correction. 

Repetitive, intense movements 

Activities like crashing into soft surfaces, spinning, or jumping repeatedly can indicate the child is seeking vestibular input to stimulate balance and body awareness.² Observing these behaviours across contexts (home, playground, or therapy sessions) helps distinguish sensory needs from playfulness or defiance. 

Oral seeking behaviours 

Chewing clothing, pencils, or other safe objects frequently may signal a need for proprioceptive or oral input. This behaviour often increases during periods of fatigue, stress, or when concentration is required.³ 

Timing and triggers 

Under seeking behaviours often occur when the child is tired, anxious, or facing transitions. Noticing patterns in timing, such as before school, after sitting for long periods, or during homework, provides insight into underlying sensory needs. 

Impact on daily function 

Does the child struggle to focus, complete tasks, or regulate emotions after periods without sensory input? Persistent self stimulation can be a compensatory mechanism for under stimulation and may escalate if unmet. 

Supportive strategies 

• Structured sensory breaks: Introduce short periods of safe crashing, jumping, or movement before or during tasks to meet sensory needs proactively. 

• Oral input alternatives: Offer chewable necklaces, crunchy snacks, or safe oral fidgets as substitutes to channel oral seeking appropriately.⁴ 

• Predictable routines: Scheduling sensory activities helps prevent escalation and teaches the child to anticipate regulation opportunities.⁵ 

• Observation and adaptation: Keep a simple log of behaviours, their triggers, and the strategies used. Over time, this provides clear data on what supports the child best. 

Micro-action: The five-minute sensory reset 

Create a five-minute sensory reset before homework or screen time. Include jumping, swinging, or chewing activities that meet the child’s needs. Track which combination reduces fidgeting or spinning during the subsequent task. 

By recognising under seeking patterns, parents can move from reactive discipline to proactive support, helping children self regulate, focus, and engage more effectively in daily life. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches attentiveness, patience, and compassionate guidance in the care of children.⁶ Recognising sensory needs behind behaviours allows parents to meet challenges with empathy, nurturing growth while honouring the trust Allah Almighty has placed in their care. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Luqman (31), Verses 14: 

‘And We (Allah Almighty) have decreed upon mankind in regard to his parents; his mother carried him (in pregnancy exposing her to) weakness upon weakness…’ 

While the verse specifically addresses parental care, its broader wisdom encourages vigilance and patience in responding to all aspects of a child’s well being, including subtle sensory needs that impact behaviour and learning. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2594, that the holy Prophet Muhammad `ﷺ` said: 

‘Kindness is not found in anything except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it makes it defective.’⁷ 

Supporting a child through sensory self regulation is a direct application of this kindness. By providing structured opportunities for movement or oral input, parents model empathy, patience, and foresight. Children learn that their needs are seen and respected, cultivating trust, emotional resilience, and confidence. 

Ultimately, recognising under seeking behaviours is about seeing the child’s internal regulation efforts behind external actions. Each safe crash, spin, or chew offers insight into how the child engages with the world. By combining observation, practical supports, and spiritual mindfulness, parents transform challenging behaviours into opportunities for growth, patience, and enduring connection rooted in care and faith.