Verbal tics/stims

[MightyMile]

DS (8) is on the waiting list for an ASD assessment. He is generally quite "high functioning" but has a really annoying habit of making lots of noise! This is usually shouting a random word or short phrase, or a sound effect/random sound like "whooooosh". He doesn't do it continually, just when he isn't concentrating on anything else in particular (school give him fiddle toys and/or let him draw during things like assembly to help control it) and it's often particularly bad just after school.

Just wondering if anyone can relate, or has tips. I've told him to do it in the bathroom so it isn't so annoying for me and his sibling.

I'm not sure how much control he has over it - and thus if it's a tic or stim or something else? Could it be Tourettes or ADHD or is it common with ASD? He will sometimes say that he really wants to do it but is trying not to.

Ironically, he hates loud noises from other sources . A lot of the phrases etc he copies from another boy in his class who also has additional needs and who is very noisy. The teacher tries to keep them apart but it's a small (mainstream, state) school with only 2 classes so not always possible.

[LongDivision]

Hi, I can really relate to your post - DS is the same age and drives us mad with his constant noise. Like you, I have no idea if it is a tic, stim, habit, self-regulation, echolalia, or even just a wind up! I suspect a little bit of everything. I wish I had advice but can only offer sympathy. This too shall pass? Maybe?