One of the challenges of having a child with autism is finding learning activities that diminish difficult behavior, while encouraging development and communication. Another challenge is choosing fun playtime ventures that will entertain your child. Fortunately, you can put the learning and the fun together. There are several categories of leisure activities an autistic child will enjoy, many of which are simple to do or easy to put together---and you might even have everything you need at home already.
Toys
The National Autistic Society (NAS) in the U.K. has compiled a list of toys and activities that parents have found to be popular with autistic kids. Blowing bubbles is always fun, as is creating art through drawing, painting, coloring, or using sketching toys like Etch-A-Sketch or Magnadoodle. They also suggest shape sorting or color matching toys, jigsaw puzzles, jack-in-the-boxes, Lego and other construction toys, and train sets.
Games
Sometimes going back to the basics is a great way to make a breakthrough. Tahirih Bushey, MA, CCC, a speech and language pathologist, autism consultant, and creator of AutismGames.org, has developed a series of games for kids with autism. There are a variety of familiar and new games to choose from, depending whether your child is at beginning, intermediate or advanced levels. For example, "Peek-a-Boo has to be the most perfect game ever created for teaching social interaction," she says. You can also try mirroring games where your child imitates what you do or say, and play with paper dolls, made to look like your family members, to encourage communication. In addition, the NAS recommends playing classic board games like Snakes & Ladders, Connect 4 or chess.
Books
Instead of plain old boring books, the NAS recommends trying some of the ones made for young kids. Board books, picture books that teach single words, books with different textures and fabrics, and books with flaps are great for autistic children. You might also want to haul out your classic collection of Dr. Seuss books, introduce puzzle books, or turn to one that's factual and informative.
Playgrounds
Sometimes your child just needs to get active. "It is useful to encourage physical activities that are enjoyable without the need for imagination and understanding or use of language," says the NAS. They point out that physical exercise also helps diminish inappropriate behavior, and improves motor co-ordination. Some fun activities your child can do at the park include the swing or slide, sand pit, monkey bars or a trampoline. Also bring along a football to toss around, or a basketball to practice shooting hoops. Riding toys are also good choices, like tractors or bicycles, and paddling pools get a thumbs-up in warmer weather. With any of these activities, be sure to properly supervise your child while she plays.
Member Comments