Tactics for dealing with self harm

[popgoestheweezel]

Just heard from ds' teacher that he has started hitting himself at school, he did it three times yesterday. Just wondering what we should do when he does this? Obviously we have to work on the underlying causes of this anxiety but in the meantime we also have to have an appropriate response when it does happen. At home we don't make a fuss about it and try to distract but just wondering if there are any better recommendations.

Can you ask the teacher to keep an urgent ABC data chart on this?

When 2yo DS3 starts pulling his hair out, I wrap him in a deep hug, so that he is getting the sensory input. Usually helps. Probably not appropriate for school though.

Sorry to hear this pop :(
Could you do as mouthy suggests and perhaps get a weighted blanket/duvet and a big hug?
Or some thing cold/hard to press I his head but not hurt him?
Like an ice pack? Frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel would do...

I don't think it is sensory seeking, I am sure it is actual self harm. When I have talked to him about it he says he does it because he is stupid and he hates himself.
I do give him lots of sensory input with hugs and stuff when he is stressed and it does help, I'm not sure what they can do at school though.
Should the teacher ask him what's wrong when he does this or try to distract him?
We've had a truly terrible afternoon here and dh and I are at our absolute wits end here.

star, can you give me a good link to something explaining abc data chart that I could send to the teacher?

behaviorguy.com/Documents/abc_chart.pdf

www.specialconnections.ku.edu/?q=behavior_plans/functional_behavior_assessment/teacher_tools/antecedent_behavior_consequence_chart

Thanks I'll send her that link