Imitating car sounds repetitively without playing with the cars, can be a form of stimming and something that regulates the child. Play is more than learning for neurodivergent children. 

It is also worth noting that how a child plays is not a sole indicator for Autism.  Lining cars up in order or playing with wheels are examples of schematic play where all children engage in repetitive actions and behaviours.

In our team, people can use fidget toys as part of their reasonable adjustments to work.  These toys such as fidget spinners can be used during training to help with concentration or in meetings to accommodate hyperactivity especially if you're needed to sit for a long time and have to release some excess energy. 

The word toy is misleading as it suggests you're playing but in reality, for a neurodivergent person, the use of a fidget toy can make a huge difference to their work.  

As well as normalising the Autistic pregnancy experience, the book draws attention to ways Autistic people stim during pregnancy and birth, acknowledging the importance of stimming as a way to self soothe and regulate.  Some common stims during pregnancy are:

-touching something that feels nice ( I used to love the feel of a swaddle blanket across my cheek)

-using your voice to sing or hum (I was guilty of that!)

-being in water

-moving your hands or feet in a particular way.

The video explores it further.

If your child is starting reception in September 2026, there are some great resources available to support you through this transition. 

This is expected to start in SEPTEMBER 2026 and will be called the Neurodivergent Needs Analysis.

There is also a support email which will answer questions on behalf of the Autism Assessment Service and/or Community Paediatric service: sirona.nd-queries@nhs.net