Games and Activities for Children with Autism

Looking for some ways to have fun with your child with autism that are both engaging and good practice for communication, social, or motor skills? Look no further! Every suggestion below may not work for every child, but you know your child best—consider these opportunities to learn through play.

Sensory Table

Great for sensory input and easy to put together, a sensory table can be made with any wide open container and any assortment of textures and objects. Think: water, rocks, leaves, sand, noodles, ice, or fuzzy pom poms. The possibilities are endless!

Lacing Cards

Toys that have children weaving shoestrings and the like through a series of holes are great for fine motor development. Stringing beads is also fun and has your child use their hands and fingers in the same way.

Play-dough

Whether store-bought or homemade, play-dough is a classic activity for exploring various textures. Working with play-dough can increase hand strength and fine-motor skills. Plus there are so many things to shape out of play-dough, it’s an activity to keep coming back to again and again!

Sensory Swing

Sensory swings can be great for calming and soothing as well as providing desirable sensory input in a fun way!

Red Light, Green Light

A great way to practice impulse control and following safety rules, the game Red Light, Green Light is a favorite of many kids. Your child can walk or run when you say “Green light!” and stop as quickly as possible when you say “Red light!” You might also incorporate visual cues depending on the needs of your child.

Simon Says

This is another fun game for working on impulse control. Your child will have to learn to pay extra close attention for the phrase “Simon Says” before each direction. Children also enjoy a turn to play the role of Simon, so be sure to switch up roles from time to time when you play this timeless classic.

Obstacle Course

Use your imagination and set up an exciting obstacle course based on your child’s abilities and needs. This could be inside or outside, at home or even a local park.

Scavenger Hunt

Another fun challenge you can create almost anywhere is a scavenger hunt. While these can also be inside or out, it’s true that the great outdoors lends itself to wonderful scavenger hunts. Take a nature walk together and challenge your child to find all the items on your list.

The best thing about many of these activities is that they are not only engaging and beneficial, but they are also a great way to spend time together! 

To find out more about ABA Therapy contact Positive Reinforcement today. Servicing North Virginia, West Virginia. Now providing ABA Therapy in Richmond Virginia.