If you’ve ever watched your child spin in circles, hum to themselves nonstop, or rub the same blanket corner for 30 minutes straight, you’ve probably asked: What is going on?
At first glance, these quirky behaviors can seem concerning, like signs of hyperactivity, distraction, or even a developmental red flag. But in many cases, they’re nothing to panic over. In fact, they’re your child’s natural way of calming their nervous system and processing their emotions.
These odd little actions are called self-soothing behaviors, and they’re a crucial part of early emotional development.
Not sure what’s considered self-soothing? Don’t worry. We’re breaking down seven of the most common “weird” things kids do that are actually helping them feel safe, grounded, and regulated.
1. Spinning in Circles or Rocking
You might catch your child repeatedly spinning in place or rocking back and forth on their knees. It might look like overstimulation—but it’s often the opposite.
This type of repetitive movement, also known as “stimming” (short for self-stimulatory behavior), can be incredibly calming. It gives the brain predictable sensory input that helps kids manage big emotions or prevent themselves from feeling overwhelmed. Some kids rock before bedtime; others spin after a loud or chaotic moment.
Unless it’s interfering with their ability to function socially or physically, it’s usually nothing to worry about.
2. Humming, Repeating Words, or Making Noises
When your child repeats the same phrase over and over or makes low, rhythmic humming sounds while playing or thinking, it might seem odd. But this behavior can actually help them focus or regulate sensory input.
Vocal self-stimulation is another way kids manage their internal environment. It gives them a sense of control, especially if they’re anxious, overstimulated, or simply trying to stay in the moment.
It might not be what adults expect from “quiet time,” but for many children, these vocal habits are a form of mental organization and comfort.
3. Chewing on Sleeves, Pencils, or Hair
While it can feel frustrating to see yet another chewed-up shirt collar or find your child gnawing on their pencil eraser, oral sensory input is one of the most common self-soothing tools for kids.
Chewing can help regulate anxiety, aid concentration, or offer a grounding sensation when things feel overwhelming. It’s similar to how some adults bite their nails or chew gum when stressed.
If it becomes excessive, parents can introduce more durable or safe alternatives like silicone chew necklaces or sensory-safe fidgets to redirect the behavior.
4. Obsessively Carrying a Specific Object
You know the one: that random sock, old toy part, or ragged stuffed animal your child refuses to leave behind, even for a trip to the store.
To an adult, it looks like junk. But to your child, it’s an emotional anchor—a way to maintain continuity and comfort in a world that often feels unpredictable.
This kind of object attachment is developmentally appropriate and typically fades as children gain more coping skills. Instead of pushing them to give it up, try setting boundaries (“It can come in the car, but not into school”) while honoring the security it provides.
5. Lining Up Toys or Repeating Play Sequences
If your child insists on arranging their toy cars in perfect rows or playing the same imaginary game in the same exact order every day, it might be more than just a quirky habit. It might be emotional regulation through predictability.
Repetition gives children a sense of control. In a world where they have little say over their schedule, surroundings, or what’s for dinner, creating consistent, self-directed routines provides comfort.
As long as these patterns don’t become obsessive or interfere with social play, they’re usually nothing to worry about and might actually signal creative intelligence at work.
6. Staring Into Space or Getting “Lost” in Daydreams
To you, it might look like zoning out. To them, it’s a momentary escape.
Daydreaming is a powerful (and underrated) self-soothing tool. It helps kids mentally process experiences, recharge, or simply entertain themselves. If your child seems healthy, alert, and engaged most of the time, occasional mental drift is not only normal. It’s beneficial.
Rather than snapping them out of it, consider giving them quiet space to explore their thoughts. Not every moment needs to be productive or outwardly engaging.
7. Hiding in Small Spaces
From closets and under tables to pillow forts and empty laundry baskets, many kids instinctively seek out enclosed, cozy spaces when they’re overwhelmed. It’s their version of a sensory reset.
Small spaces can feel safe and predictable. For some children, reducing visual and auditory input helps them settle down faster than being comforted by another person.
Parents can encourage this healthy self-regulation by creating quiet “cozy corners” or calm-down zones with soft pillows, books, and familiar objects.
When to Seek Support
While many self-soothing behaviors are completely developmentally appropriate, it’s important to keep an eye on frequency, intensity, and function. If a certain behavior seems compulsive, escalates into self-harm, or prevents your child from functioning socially or emotionally, it’s worth bringing up with a pediatrician or child therapist.
Self-soothing is about balance. Healthy behaviors help children manage stress, not avoid the world completely.
Let Their Weird Be Wonderful
It’s easy to mistake odd habits as signs of misbehavior or something to “fix.” But when you understand your child’s weird behaviors for what they are (attempts to self-regulate), you can support them without unnecessary shame or correction.
Instead of rushing in to stop the spinning, silence the hums, or replace the worn-out blanket, pause. Ask yourself: What need is my child trying to meet?
By embracing their unique rhythms, you’re not just helping them feel safe in the moment. You’re teaching them lifelong tools for emotional resilience.
What’s one “weird” thing your child does that you’ve come to recognize as self-soothing? Has it changed the way you respond?
Read More:
From Chaos to Calm: Strategies for Difficult Toddler Behavior
Biting, Hitting, Kicking: Managing Aggressive Toddler Behavior with Confidence and Compassion
Riley is an Arizona native with over nine years of writing experience. From personal finance to travel to digital marketing to pop culture, she’s written about everything under the sun. When she’s not writing, she’s spending her time outside, reading, or cuddling with her two corgis.
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