Is Fascination with Lights or Spinning a Sign of Autism?

PostedNovember 5, 2025

UpdatedNovember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, fascination with lights in autism is a common behaviour observed in many children. This behaviour often falls under the category of visual stimming, where a child becomes highly engaged with objects or patterns that provide repetitive visual stimulation. For some children, this might involve watching flashing lights or spinning objects for extended periods of time. While such behaviours can appear in neurotypical children, they tend to be more intense and persistent in children with autism.

The attraction to lights or spinning objects is an autism behaviour that helps children self-regulate or cope with sensory overload. These behaviours provide comfort and stability, offering predictable sensory experiences that help children manage overwhelming stimuli. The repetitive nature of visual stimming can be calming, particularly when a child feels overstimulated or anxious.

Why Fascination with Lights in Autism Happens

Here’s why children with autism are often drawn to spinning objects or lights:

Sensory Regulation:

Visual stimming helps children manage their sensory environment. The rhythmic motion or flashing lights provide a consistent sensory experience that can soothe anxiety or stress.

Seeking Sensory Input:

Children with autism often seek specific types of sensory input. A fascination with lights or spinning objects helps them feel more in control and grounded in chaotic or overstimulating surroundings.

Repetitive Actions:

The repetitive nature of watching lights or spinning objects establishes a sense of order and predictability, which can be calming and reassuring for children.

Recognising fascination with lights in autism as part of the broader autism behaviour spectrum can help caregivers better support the child’s sensory needs. For expert advice and tailored consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect for one-on-one support specific to your child’s needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Early Signs & Symptoms of Autism.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.