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Activities for Autism Students

Students with autism suffer from difficulties in the development of communication and social interaction skills. It is important for autistic children to be exposed to a variety of different situations and stimuli from activities as a means of furthering their therapy. According to KidsHealth, children can be affected in different ways and to different degrees by autism, so activities should be personalized to each child's needs.

  1. Sensory Activities

    • Games that engage the senses make the child feel more connected to the activity and increase the chances of success. Play games such as I-Spy or Charades, which allow the child to act out the word or emotion being discussed. Teach words by simulating the action at the same time so the child has an association. For example, jump up and down when you are teaching the word jump.

    Word Games

    • Autistic children have difficulties associating words with their proper meanings, so it is important to enforce their vocabulary with word games and labeling. Write the names of objects in your home or classroom and have the child identify the item that's associated with the name. Read picture books and allow the child to identify the images. A child will often be fond of a particular theme such as trains or outer space, so choose games and stories accordingly.

    Artistic Projects

    • Art projects are a great way for an autistic child to express himself. He will often excel at an aspect of the arts such as painting, drawing or coloring. Art projects that incorporate different stimulating materials, such as fabric and beads, can be engaging for the child. Group art projects are also a positive means to promote social awareness and interaction because the children must share the resources and work together.

    Music and Dance

    • Songs can provide a repetitive use of words that will help engage an autistic child and teach them new words that they will remember. Children who are not verbally communicative can hum to the song or use an instrument such as a tambourine or a bell to get involved. Music is also an opportunity for children to dance and move, which is important for kids with autism.

    Computer Games

    • According to Autism-World, children who have difficulties controlling their hands to write can use computer programs and games to facilitate their learning. There are autism-specific games that allow the student to learn and interact with a program designed to teach them vocabulary and social skills. Autistic children have also been found to enjoy some video games, which allow for movement and exposure to varied stimuli.

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