Your daughter may be pinching herself because it provides sensory input, specifically deep pressure and tactile (touch) input, that can be soothing and regulating for her nervous system. Essentially, she's seeking sensory feedback that she can physically feel.
Here's a breakdown:
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Sensory Seeking: Pinching can be a way for her to seek out sensory input. Some children have sensory processing differences and may crave specific sensations.
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Self-Soothing: The pressure from pinching can be calming, particularly if she is feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stressed.
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Proprioceptive Input: Pinching stimulates proprioceptors, which are sensory receptors in muscles and joints that provide information about body position and movement. This can be grounding and help her feel more aware of her body.
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Tactile Input: The touch aspect of pinching provides tactile input to the skin, which can also be regulating and provide a sense of awareness.
In Summary: Pinching is likely a way for your daughter to self-regulate by providing her nervous system with specific sensory input that she finds helpful. Consider observing when she engages in this behavior to identify potential triggers and exploring alternative sensory strategies.
