If you're the parent of a child
with autism, you've probably noticed that your little one experiences the world
a bit differently than other kids. Bright lights might bother them. Certain
textures could send them running. Or maybe they seek out specific sensations,
like spinning in circles or squeezing into tight spaces. This is all connected
to sensory processing, and the good news is that sensory activities for autism
can make a real difference in your child's daily life.
Sensory play is not just fun
and games. It's actually a powerful tool that helps children with autism learn
to regulate their responses to the world around them.
Why Sensory Activities Matter for Children with Autism
Children with autism often
process sensory information differently than neurotypical children. Some may be
hypersensitive, meaning they're easily overwhelmed by sounds, lights, or
textures. Others may be hyposensitive and actively seek out sensory input. Many
children experience a combination of both.
Sensory stimulation activities
provide a safe, controlled way for children to explore different sensations at
their own pace. Over time, these activities can help retrain the brain's
response to sensory information, making everyday situations feel less overwhelming.
The benefits go far beyond
sensory regulation, though. When children engage in autism activities that
stimulate their senses, they're also building neural pathways that support
cognitive development, improving language and communication skills, developing
fine and gross motor abilities, learning to express emotions in healthy ways,
and building social connections through shared play experiences.
Getting Started: Understanding Your Child's Sensory Profile
Before diving into specific
sensory games for autism, it helps to understand your child's unique sensory
preferences. Pay attention to what they naturally gravitate toward and what
they try to avoid. Do they cover their ears at loud noises? Do they love jumping
on the bed? Are they fascinated by water play but refuse to touch sand?
These observations will guide
you toward the right activities for children with autism that match their
needs. Some children need calming activities to help them regulate when they're
overstimulated. Others need stimulating activities to help them feel more alert
and engaged. Most benefit from a mix of both throughout the day.
Tactile Sensory Activities: Hands-On Exploration
Touch-based activities are some
of the most accessible and effective autism sensory activities you can do at
home. They help children become more comfortable with different textures while
building fine motor skills.
Playdough and Clay Creations
There's a reason playdough has
been a childhood staple for generations. The soft, malleable texture provides
calming sensory input while giving children an outlet for creativity. Make it
even more engaging by adding different textures like sand or rice, or
incorporate soothing scents with essential oils or extracts like vanilla or
lavender. For children who are hesitant about messy play, start with a small
amount and let them warm up at their own pace.
Sensory Bins
Sensory bins are endlessly
customizable containers filled with materials that engage the senses. Fill a
plastic tub with dried rice, beans, or pasta and hide small toys or objects
inside for a tactile treasure hunt. You can theme your bins around your child's
interests, whether that's dinosaurs, construction vehicles, or ocean animals.
The act of digging through materials and searching for hidden objects engages
both the tactile and proprioceptive systems while encouraging focus and
attention.
Water Bead Play
Non-toxic water beads offer a
unique sensory experience that most children find irresistible. They can squish
them, watch them bounce, or sort them by color. For added sensory input, try
refrigerating some beads for temperature contrast. Always supervise water bead
play closely, especially with younger children.
Movement-Based Activities
Many children with autism crave
movement and physical activity. These indoor activities for autistic children
target the vestibular and proprioceptive systems, which control balance and
body awareness.
Swinging and Spinning
Swinging provides rhythmic,
predictable movement that many children find deeply calming. If you have space
for an indoor swing, it can become a go-to regulation tool. For children who
seek more intense input, supervised spinning activities can help satisfy their
vestibular needs. Always watch for signs of overstimulation and give your child
breaks as needed.
Jumping Activities
Jumping is one of the simplest
and most effective sensory activities. It activates both the vestibular and
proprioceptive systems, helping children feel grounded and regulated. A small
indoor trampoline with a handle for safety is a worthwhile investment for many
families. If space is limited, jumping on a mattress or cushions works too. Try
incorporating jump games like counting jumps, jumping to music, or playing
freeze dance.
Heavy Work Activities
Heavy work refers to activities
that provide deep pressure input through pushing, pulling, lifting, or
carrying. These activities have a powerful organizing effect on the nervous
system. Try animal walks like bear crawls or crab walks, pushing a laundry basket
full of books, carrying weighted objects, or doing wall push-ups. Many children
find these activities calming and focusing, making them perfect before homework
time or bed.
Calming Sensory Activities
When your child is feeling
overwhelmed or overstimulated, having a toolkit of calming sensory games for
autism can help them return to a regulated state.
Create a Sensory Calm-Down Corner
Designate a quiet space in your
home where your child can go when they need to decompress. Stock it with
calming items like soft blankets, pillows, fidget toys, noise-canceling
headphones, and a few favorite books. Some children benefit from a small tent
or canopy that creates a cozy, enclosed feeling. Make sure your child knows
this is their safe space to use whenever they need it.
Stress Ball Squeezing and Fidget Toys
Fidget toys and stress balls
provide tactile input and give restless hands something to do. This can help
children focus during activities that might otherwise feel challenging, like
sitting through a meal or completing schoolwork. Let your child try different
options to find what works best for them. Some prefer squishy textures while
others like the resistance of firmer materials.
Creative Sensory Activities
Art and creative play offer
wonderful opportunities for multi-sensory engagement while encouraging
self-expression.
Finger Painting
Finger painting combines
tactile stimulation with creative expression. For children who are hesitant
about messy play, start by painting inside a sealed plastic bag. They can
squish and move the paint around without ever touching it directly. As they become
more comfortable, you can gradually introduce direct finger painting. Use
different textures by adding sand, salt, or flour to the paint.
Music and Sound Exploration
Making music engages auditory
processing while providing opportunities for movement and creativity. Create
homemade instruments using household items like rice in plastic containers for
shakers, wooden spoons and pots for drums, or rubber bands stretched over boxes
for guitars. Singing songs together, dancing to music, or simply listening to
calming sounds can all support sensory development.
Tips for Successful Sensory Play
Follow your child's lead. Pay
attention to their reactions and adjust activities accordingly. If something
causes distress, don't push it. There are plenty of other options to try.
Start slowly. Introduce new
textures and sensations gradually. A child who rejects sand today might be
ready to try it in a few weeks.
Make it routine. Building
sensory activities into your daily schedule helps children know what to expect
and gives them regular opportunities for regulation.
Join in the fun. Participating
alongside your child builds connection and helps them feel safe exploring new
experiences.
Be patient. Sensory processing
development takes time. Celebrate small wins and trust the process.
Professional Support Makes a Difference
While home-based sensory
activities are valuable, working with professionals who specialize in autism
can help you create an approach tailored to your child's specific
needs. Therapists can assess your child's unique sensory profile, recommend
targeted activities, and teach you strategies that make everyday life easier
for your whole family.
At Elevation Autism Center, our
team understands that every child is different. We work closely with families
to develop individualized plans that incorporate sensory strategies alongside
evidence-based ABA therapy. Our clinics are designed with sensory needs in
mind, providing a supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and
thrive.
If you're looking for guidance
on supporting your child's sensory development or want to learn more about our
early learners program, we'd love to hear from you. Every day brings new
opportunities for growth, and we're here to help you and your child make the
most of them.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Elevation Autism
Center to schedule a consultation and discover how we can support your child's
unique journey.
