6 Rewarding Activities You Can Do With Your Autistic Child

Being a parent of a child with autism can be challenging at times, but you also have many opportunities for bonding and enjoyment. If you are searching for specialized activities that cater to your child’s needs and interests, this article can help. Here are six rewarding activities you can do with your autistic child to foster connection, growth, and joy.

Create Masterpieces Through Fingerpainting

Art can be an extraordinary tool for self-expression, and fingerpainting is especially wonderful for tactile stimulation. Gather a variety of non-toxic, washable paints and large sheets of paper, and encourage your child to express themselves through the movement of their fingers on the canvas.

Fingerpainting is also a great way to encourage your child’s imagination while promoting their motor skills. Plus, it’s just plain fun.

Get Your Child Moving With Dancing

Dancing is a delightful way to connect with your child while helping them develop coordination and rhythm. Turn up their favorite tunes and take over the living room for a dance party. Whether they enjoy structured dances or free expression, dancing can also serve as a great emotional outlet and provide sensory input that many children with autism crave.

Enjoy Books and Stories Together

Reading is another rewarding activity you can do with your autistic child. Your child can strengthen their language skills as you two settle into the world of a book or a story.

Select books with bright pictures and captivating stories to read alongside your child. This shared activity can improve comprehension and listening skills while establishing a love for storytelling.

Teach Your Kid About Recognizing Emotions

Many children with autism benefit from direct instruction in emotional recognition. Create flashcards with faces expressing different emotions and review them with your child, discussing what each feeling looks like and when it might occur. This activity not only aids your child in emotion recognition but also helps them develop empathy and social understanding, which are beneficial for your kid’s daily interactions.

Run Through Social Scenarios Using Their Toys

Use your child’s toys to play out social scenarios that they might encounter in their lives. Role-playing can demystify complex social interactions and give your child a safe space to learn and practice these essential skills. You can use toys—such as dolls—to represent people with real emotions and reactions, making the experience relatable and enjoyable for your child.

Engage in Classic Card and Board Games With Them

Introducing your autistic child to classic card and board games can be a fantastic way to enhance their cognitive skills, teach turn-taking, and foster patience. Choose simple, visually appealing games that match your child’s interests and cognitive level.

Games like matching pairs or simple board games offer predictability and clear rules, which can be comforting for children on the spectrum. Playing these games provides a structured way for your child to engage in social interaction, practice following rules, and understand the concept of winning and losing in a safe, controlled environment. Furthermore, it’s a great opportunity for family bonding, allowing siblings and parents to participate in an inclusive activity.

Engaging in these activities not only aids in your child’s development but also helps create meaningful and cherished memories. Always remember to be patient and attentive to your child’s responses and sensory preferences as you explore these enriching experiences together.