The changing of the seasons is the perfect opportunity to try out some new activities with your loved ones. In particular, the crisp air, warm smell of apple pie, and colorful leaves of autumn provide the perfect opportunity to create cherished memories with your family. If you have a child with autism, there are some considerations to keep in mind throughout the season. Continue reading to explore some fun fall activities for children with autism.
Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Visiting a pumpkin patch is an iconic fall activity the whole family will love. If your child has sensory sensitivities or feels easily overwhelmed in large groups of people, opt to visit a smaller location on a slow day. Many pumpkin patches are flooded with people on fall weekends; try going on a weeknight for a fun after-school activity that will be more low-stress for your child.
Let your child explore the patch and admire the various shapes, sizes, and colors of the pumpkins. Don’t forget to take a fun family photo after they pick out the perfect pumpkin to take home. If you decide to visit the same pumpkin patch every year, it will be heartwarming to look back and see how your child has grown.
Create a Sensory Bin
With so many unique items associated with fall, creating an autumn-themed sensory bin for your child is easy, educational, and fun. Think corn husks, dried corn on the cob, bumpy gourds, mini pumpkins, and pieces of hay. Once you have assembled your items in a container, let your child use a variety of cups, spoons, and tongs to explore.
Your child will love interacting with the fall-themed goods. While they’re busy pouring, grabbing, or scooping, you can highlight the color and texture of each item and how it relates to the fall season. Plus, a sensory bin is a wonderful activity if your child is working on mastering fine motor skills.
Rake Leaves
Raking leaves is another fun fall activity for children with autism because you can collect the leaves in a pile and jump into the heap. Start by showing your child how to use the rake to make a pile, then give them a turn. While you’re raking, you can point out the brittle texture and the loud crunch of the dried leaves. You can also throw the leaves in the air and watch them slowly float to the ground.
Raking leaves is the perfect opportunity for autistic children to stimulate their senses while enjoying the great outdoors. This type of fall activity is also a straightforward way for your child to practice following directions and complete a helpful household chore. Lastly, since there are several benefits of physical activity for children with autism, raking leaves is an easy way to increase their heart rate while having fun.
There are so many enjoyable, developmentally appropriate fall activities that children with autism can try. Choose the activity that works best for your family and prepare to create precious memories throughout the autumn season in no time.
