increased stemming as he gets older

[mom2boys1997]

My almost nine year old is displaying more autisic signs.  He has begun to stem more, especially in public. 

He is showing a decrease in his social development.  He has always been a social child, but just over the last few weeks he is showing more lack of awareness of others, (I am frustrated in trying to describe his actions)

He wants to be alone, he stems in public, especially when required to sit and be quiet, like in church, school time. (I homeschool)

He does the opposite of what he is told.  ( I told him to put the milk away and he took it to the bathroom, ) 

He is getting worse, not bet, or it is becoming more noticeable as he gets older and still showing little kid behaviors.

I would appreciate any advice in helping him act his age.

[sumopanda]

Hi, My son is 8 and I have noticed when he is unhappy about something he regresses into more autistic behavior.  For my son, it can be as simple as not having enough sensory input, hugs, deep pressure, etc.  I find bouncing on an exercise ball very helpful since he is too big to jump on the bed anymore.  Also, as my son has been growing up, there are more expectations, and sometimes that is a little too much for him to handle, so he "retreats."  1 step forward, 2 steps back.  It takes awhile for him to get use to the new expectations.  Hope that helps.  I find with my son, there is always a reason, I just don't understand all the time.  Best...