All children learn through play, and it’s one of the gentlest ways to keep your autistic child learning and advancing without feeling pressured. While language is a challenge to children living with autism, they love visual and sensory games of various kinds. However, do be aware that they will have their own unique preferences, so to keep play fun, and open them to developmental gains, let them work within their comfort zone, and keep challenges small.
Play as a Therapy
It may seem as though fun isn’t “serious learning,” but you need only talk to therapists like those at Action Behavior Centers to confirm that it’s one of the best ways to teach autistic children new skills. While they’re having a good time, autistic children can unconsciously improve communication skills, motor skills, and even behavioral skills that will stand them in good stead—looking for some therapeutic games to help your child with learning? Try these tips.
Play With Color
Playing with colorful paints is always fun. You’ll love some of the abstract designs and interesting visual textures your child comes up with. Let their imagination run wild, let them practice abstract thinking and fine motor skills without realizing it, and improve their verbal skills through your feedback. Just be ready for a huge mess! Begin with finger painting and even foot painting, and work your way up. You might find yourself surprised by the little masterworks they create.
Play With Texture
As “Auntie” to an autistic child, I know how much she loves making scrunched up tissue-paper flowers and was amused to find that this is a real therapeutic learning exercise. She loves all the praise she gets for her art too. So add to the fun with stickers, mosaic tiles, paint, googly eyes, or even coloured pasta – anything that combines color and texture will be appreciated and add to the learning experience through play. .
Play Outdoors
Outdoor play is just the thing for wearing off some of that boundless children’s energy, and for autistic kids, it lets them gain coordination and build their physical skills. Run, jump, spin, swing, blow bubbles, learn to ride a bike, play ball, look at and touch things. There’s even research that backs up the idea that outdoor play improves behavior and promotes independence.
So offer a range of activities, and let them have fun! It’s great for body and mind alike. Don’t expect your child to play in quite the same way other children do, but give them freedom to do it their way or join the fun to show them new ways to have fun.
Play With Clay
Play with color and texture at once with clay or play dough. At first, let your child get used to making any shapes they like. Then challenge them to make something representational. This can be a great aid when learning to form and learn letters or numbers. Whatever the results, be sure to show interest and approval. Keep it fun and positive to keep your child engaged.
Happiness Matters Most
Educational activities are fun activities. Keep it that way by staying positive. If you’re feeling worn out and frustrated, give it a break. Without positive associations, your child will withdraw and resist your well-intentioned efforts. When learning activities are associated with positive feedback, you stand a better chance of transferring knowledge that will help your child to cope with the challenges life has in store.
Use these activities, and other educational games, as a starting point and discover what your child loves to do. Then, find ways to leverage that in teaching practical and social skills. It’s worth the effort!
