12 Fun and Engaging Play Activities for Kids with Autism
Key Points:
- Play is crucial for children with autism, helping them develop communication, motor, and social skills.
- Sensory play, structured games, and creative activities can enhance learning and engagement.
- Choosing activities based on a child’s interests can improve focus, reduce anxiety, and encourage social interaction.
Children with autism experience play differently, but that doesn’t mean they enjoy it any less. The right activities can help them learn, connect, and grow in ways that feel natural and exciting. With engaging, structured games, parents can create meaningful play experiences that support both fun and skill development.
By choosing the right activities, parents and caregivers can create a positive and enriching play environment for their child, and incorporating self-regulation techniques can enhance this experience even further. To learn more about effective strategies, check out our article on 6 Self-Regulation Activities for Autism Support.
What are Some Sensory Play Activities for Autism?
Many children with autism process sensory input differently. Sensory play can help them regulate emotions, improve focus, and explore new textures and sounds in a safe way.
Here are some engaging sensory play activities:
1. Sensory Bins
Fill a large container with materials like:
- Dry rice or beans
- Kinetic sand
- Water beads
- Shredded paper
- Cotton balls
Add small toys, letters, or scooping tools to encourage hands-on exploration.
2. Water Play
Water-based activities are both calming and fun. Try:
- Pouring water between containers (teaches coordination)
- Adding food coloring and ice cubes (stimulates curiosity)
- Using sponges and water guns (enhances fine motor skills)
3. Playdough or Slime
Molding, squishing, and stretching different textures helps with:
- Fine motor development
- Sensory processing
- Creative expression
Adding scents or small objects like beads can make the experience even more interactive.
What Social Play Activities Can Help Children With Autism?
Building social skills through play can be a gradual process. Some children prefer parallel play (playing next to others but not interacting), while others may enjoy cooperative games. The key is to find activities that encourage interaction without pressure.
1. Turn-Taking Games
Simple turn-based activities teach patience and social engagement, such as:
- Board games with clear rules (e.g., Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders)
- Ball rolling back and forth
- Musical chairs with a small group
2. Imaginative Play
Role-playing and storytelling help children understand emotions and social cues. Activities include:
- Dressing up as favorite characters
- Pretend cooking with a toy kitchen
- Acting out stories with puppets
3. Group Art Projects
Collaborative activities encourage teamwork and communication:
- Finger painting on a shared canvas
- Building a giant LEGO structure together
- Decorating a poster with stickers and markers
What Are Some Movement-Based Activities for Kids With Autism?
Physical activity is important for all children, but for kids with autism, movement-based play can also help with sensory integration, motor skills, and self-regulation.
1. Obstacle Courses
Set up a simple course using:
- Pillows to jump over
- Tunnels to crawl through
- Cones to weave around
This improves coordination while offering structured physical activity.
2. Trampoline Play
Jumping on a trampoline can help with:
- Balance and coordination
- Energy regulation
- Body awareness
3. Animal Walks
Encourage movement with fun imitation exercises:
- Bear crawl (walking on hands and feet)
- Bunny hops (jumping forward)
- Crab walk (walking on hands and feet facing up)
These activities engage core muscles and help with motor planning.
What Independent Play Activities are Suitable for Kids With Autism?
Not all children enjoy group activities. Some prefer solo play, which can still be engaging and educational.
1. Puzzles and Sorting Games
Activities that involve problem-solving help with focus and cognitive skills. Options include:
- Jigsaw puzzles with simple shapes or favorite characters
- Sorting objects by color, size, or texture
- Matching games with cards or pictures
2. Cause-and-Effect Toys
Toys that respond to actions help children understand the concept of cause and effect. Examples include:
- Light-up or sound-producing toys
- Wind-up or push-button toys
- Marble runs
3. Building Activities
Creating structures with blocks, LEGO bricks, or magnetic tiles fosters:
- Spatial awareness
- Fine motor control
- Independent problem-solving
Encouraging children to build freely or follow patterns can make playtime more rewarding.
Choosing the Right Autism Play Activities for Your Child
Every child is different, so selecting the right play activities depends on their interests, sensory preferences, and developmental stage. Here are some tips for choosing engaging play options:
- Follow their interests – If they love cars, incorporate toy vehicles into activities.
- Consider sensory needs – Some children prefer quiet, tactile activities, while others enjoy high-energy play.
- Start with short sessions – Gradually increase playtime as they become more engaged.
- Offer choices – Let them pick between two or three activities to increase participation.
Being flexible and patient is key to making playtime a positive experience.
Looking for ABA Therapy in Utah?
Engaging in structured play activities is a great way to support a child’s development, but professional guidance can make an even bigger impact. At Acclimate ABA, we specialize in ABA therapy to help children develop communication, social, and behavioral skills in a supportive, play-based environment.
Contact us today if you’re looking for personalized ABA therapy in Utah and learn how we can support your child’s growth through structured, evidence-based interventions.
