6 month old - repetitive hand clenching/twisting

[Jcmummy32]

Hi everyone.

I need some help... I have a 6 month old baby who has started opening and closing one fist over and over again, twisting it at the wrist or banging one arm.

I have a nephew who is autistic. Is there a link between these things and autism? Does anyone have any experience with this?

Don’t really have anyone to talk to

My 7 month old does the same! Banging their arms is actually a milestone listed on the 8 month ages and stages questionnaire (that health visitors use) and opening and closing hands is a normal sensory behaviour like hand flapping (both of which are totally typical at this stage and only become a sign of autism much much later if they don't grow out of it and only then in conjunction with much bigger social communication issues). Don't worry at all.