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Autism & Communication Activities

Children diagnosed with autism have communication deficits. Many board games and software are well-suited to teach kids with autism how to identify social cues, take turns, problem-solve and work collaboratively.

  1. Board Games, Ages 3 to 6

    • Games for younger kids include Bambino Dino, in which kids must work with other players to save Dino from encroaching waters. Secret Door is another cooperative game in which players must problem-solve, figuring out clues that will point to the thief who is stealing valuables from the mansion. Even the classic games of Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders teach kids with autism how to wait for a turn, handle frustration and use appropriate communication.

    Board Games, 7 and older

    • Let's Go Sailing is an excellent game that encourages cooperative team skills as the kids work together to sail their boat to its destination. DGA T.V. gives kids an opportunity to work as producers with seven shows. They must work together effectively in order to keep ratings high. Kids with autism will learn to read faces, recognize nonverbal cues and communicate in ways that are socially acceptable. Kids with higher-functioning autism, such as those with Aspergers syndrome, especially benefit from chess clubs, Lego groups, robotic teams and other gatherings that emphasize a communal interest.

    Floortime Activites

    • Floortime activities involve getting on the floor and engaging at a child's level and inviting her to come out of her world A game such as peek-a-boo encourages a child to observe and copy. Engaging her in a relaxed and natural manner draws her out and encourages two-way communication and participation in social activities.

    Software

    • FaceSay Social Skills Software teaches children how to read facial expressions. Your child will learn how to discriminate between facial expressions by focusing on the subtle changes of the eyes and eyebrows of a face. The software is effective in teaching nonverbal cues. Many autistic kids look at the mouth of the person talking. For more information, go to http://www.FaceSay.com.

    Active Games

    • Other games that are active and encourage social interaction, listening and copying are Simon says, hide-n-seek, tag and red rover. Any team sport encourages listening and encourages a child with autism to remain tuned into the team and the game.

    Considerations

    • Just about any game will encourage communication. With the right support and enough patience and encouragement, the majority of kids with autism can derive great rewards from being part of a group, playing a game and being successful.

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