Hello folks I am new to the group and new to knowing my son is on the spectrum. He is 2 1/2 and we have him working with First Steps as of now to see where he really is at in life right now. So I’m aware that self injury is something we should redirect of course but there are a few others that I’m not quite sure how to help him with. My son will do this thing where he shakes his head back and forth really really fast. It typically comes when he is really happy and too much is going on, or if the tv is on. It looks uncomfortable from my point of view, there’s constant emotions across his face, his eyes are real big, and we can never get him to snap out of it. Should we be redirecting this?
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will do thank you!

All stimming is good for him if he's not harmed by it

All stimming is acceptable as long as he isn’t hurting himself or others. It’s part of who he is.
It sounds like he’s craving sensory input. So, maybe work on a sensory diet with OT.

how would I know if this is essentially harmful for him? Should he be shaking like that for long periods?

what’s a sensory diet? We are working on his diet with OT right now through first steps?

If it were me (and it was me about 5-6 years ago when my son did this) I usually video record it happening then I show my pediatrician (make an appointment or email if that's an option) and I would state how long he does it for and ask if there are any adverse side effects to this form of stimming. If they don't know they usually consult with other specialists (neurologists or developmental specialists). But your pediatrician should be able to help after being provided with this information. This will be you advocating for your son. Something you are already doing and will be doing for a big chunk of his lifetime, as all us Moms here do. He will help you to grow and become stronger and our children teach us so much! Trust me!

okay I’m gonna follow with this course of action! Thank you