One Way Children with Autism Miss Out

I was thinking about writing this post and I went back to some sections that I cut out of the book I recently completed.  One thing stood out to me so I thought I would make it our topic of discussion.

Children with Autism get left out of many regular life activities.

Not on purpose, it is not like we go around saying “hmm, no I don’t think I want my child to try chewing gum.”  It is that they don’t ask, can I? They don’t say please, please, please. So we don’t think about it.  Has your child been diagnosed yet with autism? Read our article “Am I the Parent of a Child with Autism” here.

I’ll be honest, when my child was little, sometimes I would forget to give her a drink.  Because she didn’t ask when she got thirsty at some point, I realize she’s you know it’s been a while since she had a drink.  I bet you have some similar experiences.  It goes with the territory.

Frequently, I would figure this out when she was getting upset.  She was always a happy toddler so it was usually a matter of trial and error to figure out what might be wrong. Frequently it was food, occasionally she was thirstier than normal or I had forgotten for too long to offer her a drink.

Things often get overlooked because people are busy and the squeaky wheel gets the grease.  There are times you may realize that it’s been hours since your child ate and maybe that is why they are cranky.

It can be very limiting with sensory issues to do many things such as the movies, bowling, rollerskating and indoor play places.  The other things that get missed may not be the large things, however, if we can add new experiences, everyday experiences, it can greatly increase the quality of life. These activities will help broaden your child’s area’s of interest and may just make your day and theirs.

Activities to enjoy with children with autism

Here is a list of a few things that came to mind with spring and summer approaching. I will start with a few outdoor activities.

Playing in the sprinkler, with water guns and water balloons.

Finger paint (or use brushes for sensory avoiders). Okay, not all kids finger paint outside, but mine usually need to.

Blow bubbles. You may have to do this for awhile until they get the hang of it.  Even then you may need to hold the wand so they can blow depending on age.

Kaleidoscope.  You can make one using a paper towel core and putting pretty pieces of construction paper cut into different shapes and sizes inside.  You can also paint small rocks. Be sure only to let your child use it when you’re with them if they like to put things in their mouth.  Covering the outside with aluminum foil or wrapping paper makes it pretty and covering the ends with saran wrap or using a sheet protector cut into pieces lets the child see the contents as they turn it.

Sand and water table or equivalent.  Kinetic sand is a great option also.  Close supervision may be necessary depending on your child’s sensory issues.

Go to the zoo, an aquarium, science or art museum

Go out to eat in the afternoon when restaurants aren’t busy.  Try a new restaurant.  You never know what your child might love.

Dance in the rain

Stargaze

Have a picnic in the park

Do as much as you can to ensure that your child has varied experiences to encourage growth and inclusion.  Start slowly and see what works for them.  This is a marathon, not a sprint, just get started sooner than later.

These ideas will get you started.  If you have other’s please share so we can all benefit!

Have a Beautiful Day!

Jodi