Fun Activities for Children with Autism

Whether you’re at home or out in the community, having fun and educational activities to do with your child can help keep them focused and engaged while also providing a meaningful learning experience. Activities that are designed with children with autism in mind can give them an opportunity to grow and develop new skills. At Rising Above ABA, we love finding activities that spark imagination, foster learning, and promote eye-opening experiences. Whether as part of social skills groups for children or activities done at home, these activities can help build a foundation for growth and development.

Five of the Best Activities for Children with Autism

1. Snowy Sensory Bin

For a winter-themed activity, fill a tub or bin with snow and provide children with a variety of items to explore in the snow. This activity can help children understand the concept of temperature and also teaches them sensory discrimination by providing items of different shapes, textures, and colors.

2. Snowman Building

This winter activity for children can be done outside and is perfect for a snow day home from school. Have your child build a snowman with playdough or real snow. This activity encourages creativity, develops fine motor skills, and gives children the opportunity to practice activities such as rolling, cutting, and molding.

3. Music Therapy

Music therapy activities for children with autism can be a great way to work on activities such as developing communication skills, improving attention and focus, and teaching them body awareness. Try having your child:

• Sing along with music
• Move to the beat
• Create their own music using instruments

As they participate in activities like these, your child will also learn to recognize different types of music and explore their own emotions.

4. Art Projects

Art activities for children with autism can help them express themselves and work on a variety of skills, such as focusing, following directions, and problem-solving. Have your child paint, draw, or create a craft project. If they need help focusing, activities such as coloring with markers can be easier to complete.

5. Animal Visits

Animal activities for children with autism can be beneficial in helping them to practice social skills and develop problem-solving skills. Take your child to a nearby farm or petting zoo, or have an animal visit your home. During activities like these, children often learn to be gentle, practice taking turns, and use their imagination while learning about animals.

How to Adapt Activities for Social Skills Groups

Activities such as these can be adapted to fit the needs of a social skills group. In addition to using activities for individual therapy, activities used in groups can help children learn how to interact with each other. For activities such as snowman building and music therapy, you can create more of a game-like atmosphere by having children take turns and offering rewards for completing activities.

Other strategies to consider when adapting activities for social skills groups include:

• Consider the size of the group and adjust activities accordingly
• Make sure activities are age-appropriate
• Encourage teamwork and communication
• Provide activities that are both challenging and achievable

Whether activities are done in individual therapy or in a group setting, they can provide a meaningful learning opportunity for children with autism.

Contact Rising Above ABA to Learn More

At Rising Above ABA, we offer activities that promote learning, growth, and development for children with autism spectrum disorder. If you are interested in learning more about activities for children with autism, contact us today. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and provide resources on activities that can help your child reach their goals.

Contact our team at 888.572.7473 or reach out online to get started.