Sometimes trying to come up with activities for autistic children that are fun, educational, and don’t cost a lot can be a struggle. So it’s reassuring to know that there are a number of possibilities, it’s just a matter of finding a few that appeal to your child’s personal tastes. The following are examples of popular activities for autistic children ages 7-11.

Indoor activities:

– Singing – Autistic children obtain a number of benefits from singing. Children who do not speak may hum, make sounds, or play musical instruments such as whistles, tambourines, drums, kazoos, or small keyboards. Repeating sounds, making up new melodies, or even learning educational lyrics can go a long way in helping children learn, and can also provide much-needed sensory stimulation – just like yelling, only more pleasing to a parent’s ear! ! Imitating the notes and melodies of others can be an important social experience that encourages interaction. Experiment with different sounds and different types of music to find the ones your child enjoys and responds to best.

– funny sounds – making and imitating funny sounds can be a laugh-filled social learning experience for autistic children and their parents. Children enjoy the sensory outlet and repetition element of this game. You can try writing a number of different animals or objects on different sheets of paper and whichever you choose must make the appropriate noise.

– Castles – Building castles with almost anything can be a lot of fun. The type of building “blocks” depends on the motor skills of the child. It can range from plastic or wooden letter blocks to large “Lego” or “Duplo” style blocks, or even playing cards if they are hand dexterous.

– Safe Emergencies – these games are educational but can also be fun. They involve enacting the correct procedures on what to do in an emergency event. This includes what to do in case of fire and other urgent situations. The important part of these games is to build a calm routine around them.

– Simple board games – Start with simple or basic board games and increase the level of difficulty as your child grows and learns to work with the rules of the games. Many board games are enjoyable activities for autistic children because they are relatively predictable and provide routine. They also encourage taking turns, but make sure that losing is never a big deal, it’s just an outcome. Otherwise, they may associate negative emotions with gambling and refuse to play.

Outdoor activities:

– Simple children’s games – remember your childhood and the games you used to play. For many children there is no reason why they cannot participate in basic childhood games. As long as they are not too complex socially, many autistic children can have a lot of fun playing games like tag or follow the leader. Keep in mind that the best activities for autistic children do not require close or prolonged physical contact with other people. You may want to make sure you stick to games that focus on your child’s unique abilities to add comfort and confidence to the game.

– Organized Sports – Many children enjoy participating in organized sports just like any other child their age. Aim for sports that allow them to participate without too much sensory stimulation and that don’t require a lot of equipment. Golf and baseball are good activities for autistic children, while sports like football may not be suitable.

– Water balloons – Autistic children can often benefit from various sensory stimulators and water balloons can fit the bill. Throwing them or holding and smashing them can be a lot of fun. This also encourages children to play with others when it comes to games such as “hot potato”: throwing the balloon filled with water at each other pretending it is a hot potato.

– jumping rocks – if you are lucky enough to live near water and your child is responsible in the water, jumping rocks can be a great way to have fun and use the muscles of the arms, encouraging the development of motor skills. If you have a pool that is large enough, you can try skipping the plastic floating discs.

– I spy – Whether trying to pass the time in the car or sitting on the patio, this game is a great way to learn colors to socially interact with others.

These activities for autistic kids are a great way to have fun, learn important lessons, and build basic social skills without breaking the bank.