One challenge for parents in our position is knowing how to keep an autistic child or children busy.
Children with autism may have difficulty with social interactions, communication, and understanding social cues.
They may also exhibit repetitive behaviors, have intense interests in specific subjects, and be sensitive to sensory stimulation.
As a result, it is essential to keep autistic children engaged with activities that suit their unique needs and preferences.
Whilst it goes without saying that every autistic child is different we have prepared the below list of ideas for you to consider.
Engage in sensory activities:
Sensory activities can be very calming and soothing for children with autism. You can try activities such as finger painting, playing with sand or water, or using sensory balls.
Offer a variety of toys and games:
Autistic children may have intense interests in specific subjects, so it is essential to offer a variety of toys and games to keep them engaged. You may have to operate a system of trial and error.
Try different types of puzzles, building blocks, or games that require problem-solving skills..
Encourage physical activity:
Physical activity is an excellent way to help autistic children release their energy and reduce anxiety.
Activities such as swimming, jumping on a trampoline, or playing catch can be great ways to engage them in physical activity.
Attend special needs activities:
The majority of external activities for children such as cinemas, swimming pools, soft plays and trampoline venues have SEN specialised sessions.
These sessions may have lowered lighting and music or a wide range of sensory equipment. If you run some quick searches online you may be surprised at what dedicated sessions are available in your area.
Create a schedule:
Children with autism thrive on structure and routine. Using a schedule for the day can help keep them engaged and focused.
The schedule should include activities such as playtime, learning time, and quiet time.
Make use of technology:
Technology can be an excellent way to keep autistic children busy. Educational apps or games can help them learn while keeping them engaged.
Engage in creative activities:
Creative activities such as drawing, painting, or creating music can be great ways to help autistic children express themselves.
If you prepare an area for some mess then this could be really enjoyable for you both.
Provide a quiet space:
Children with autism may become overstimulated by noise and sensory input. Providing a quiet space where they can relax can be very beneficial.
Give them a bath:
Many autistic children find water calming. You can incorporate baths into the middle of the day to give them some time to soak and possibly calm down.
If you fill the bath with sensory toys your child may actively look forward to bath time.
Spend time outdoors:
Spending time outdoors can be very calming and relaxing for autistic children. Many autistic children love swings so a journey to a local park may be beneficial to you both.
Activities such as going for a walk or playing in a sandbox can be great ways to engage them in outdoor activities.
Read together:
Reading together can be a great way to engage autistic children in learning and social interaction. Choose books that are age-appropriate and that they find interesting, these may include those with pages containing different textures.
Summary – How to keep an autistic child busy
Keeping an autistic child busy requires patience, creativity, and flexibility.
It is essential to offer activities that suit their unique needs and preferences.
By using a combination of the above strategies, you can help them stay engaged, reduce anxiety, and develop important skills.
