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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Original poster

Hand flapping

181 replies

Donttellanyone1 · 23/04/2025 15:38

Is this a worry? DD is 7 and has started flapping her hands when she’s excited. She often combines this with running and jumping, sometimes makes a bit of noise too although this has been going on for longer, at least the last two or three years. She also seems to do it when she comes out of school, as if to burn off the excess energy that she’s been holding on to at school. No other signs of ASD that I’m aware of and school haven’t mentioned anything. Should I be worried?

OP posts:
neverbeenskiing · 23/04/2025 16:14

No one on here will be able to tell you whether your child is Autistic or not. Your best option would be to speak to the school senco.

Original poster
Donttellanyone1 · 23/04/2025 16:12

Thank you, that was such a lovely message to read. Thank you for being so kind. Your daughter also sounds wonderful and I’m
sure with the right support, she’ll do just fine. Would you mind if I asked what her other signs and symptoms were please?

OP posts:
Firsttimemummyworries · 23/04/2025 16:11

No, I completely understand. My little girl is a lot younger than yours (pre school), it’s very likely she’s autistic. I worry about her future. I don’t ever want her feeling different/struggling with life. It breaks my heart to be honest. I’ve often grieved the child I thought I’d have as her traits have become more apparent. I think worrying is natural though when you’re their mum. However, like you say - I love her regardless. Her quirks make her who she is & I’m sure she, and your daughter, autistic or not, will thrive 😁

Original poster
Donttellanyone1 · 23/04/2025 16:07

Also, and I feel like the worst mother ever admitting this, but I feel embarrassed by it when she does it. I don’t want people looking at her and thinking that there is something wrong with her. Of course I’ll love her whatever she is or isn’t but is it awful to say that I don’t want her to be autistic? Not meaning to offend anyone, just being honest

OP posts:
Original poster
Donttellanyone1 · 23/04/2025 16:04

Yes I know and I think if she does have it then it will be the milder end of the spectrum but I’m just worried because it just seems an odd behaviour at her age.

OP posts:
Firsttimemummyworries · 23/04/2025 16:00

Hi. Not worried.. ASD isn’t a death sentence. Kids can “tic” and it be nothing. Ask school? No harm asking the school nurse or senco to observe. Early intervention is most helpful :)