Occupational therapy (OT) plays a vital role in supporting children with autism by addressing sensory processing challenges, enhancing motor skills, and fostering independence.
Sensory-friendly activities are specifically designed to create a calming, structured environment that respects individual sensitivities while promoting engagement. Below are ten effective OT activities tailored for children with autism, explained with clarity and depth suitable for a high school audience.
1. Weighted Blanket Forts
Weighted blankets provide deep pressure input, which can have a calming effect on the nervous system. For this activity, guide the child in building a cozy fort using household items like chairs, pillows, and a weighted blanket. Inside the fort, incorporate soft lighting (e.g., string lights) and quiet activities such as reading or puzzles.
Benefits: Encourages proprioceptive input, reduces anxiety, and creates a safe space for relaxation.
2. Sensory Bins with Tactile Materials
Fill a large container with materials like dried rice, kinetic sand, or water beads. Add small toys, scoops, or cups for exploration. Adjust the texture based on the child’s preferences—for example, use foam beads for tactile sensitivity or warm water for a soothing experience.
Benefits: Enhances tactile discrimination, fine motor skills, and focus through hands-on play.
3. Obstacle Courses with Movement Breaks
Design an indoor or outdoor obstacle course that includes crawling tunnels, balance beams, and stepping stones. Incorporate movements like jumping, rolling, or bear crawls to engage the vestibular and proprioceptive systems.
Benefits: Improves coordination, body awareness, and self-regulation through structured physical activity.
4. Calming Sensory Bottles
Create sensory bottles by filling clear containers with water, glitter, beads, or oil. Seal tightly and let the child shake or tilt the bottle to observe the swirling patterns. For added variety, use glow-in-the-dark paint or themed objects (e.g., ocean creatures).
Benefits: Provides visual stimulation, promotes mindfulness, and serves as a portable calming tool.
5. Chewable Jewelry or Sensory Necklaces
Offer silicone chewable necklaces or bracelets designed for oral sensory needs. These tools allow children to safely satisfy oral cravings while staying focused during tasks like homework or transitions.
Benefits: Supports self-regulation, reduces oral fixation, and minimizes distractions.
6. Swinging Activities
Install a platform swing or hammock swing in a safe space. Gentle swinging can be rhythmic and predictable, while faster motions may cater to sensory-seeking children. Pair swinging with games like catching a ball or identifying colors to integrate cognitive tasks.
Benefits: Stimulates the vestibular system, improves balance, and enhances spatial awareness.
7. Play-Doh or Therapy Putty Exercises
Use Play-Doh or resistance putty to practice hand-strengthening exercises. Encourage the child to roll, pinch, or flatten the material, or hide small objects inside for a “treasure hunt” challenge.
Benefits: Develops hand muscles, fine motor control, and creativity through tactile exploration.
8. Aromatherapy with Scented Play
Introduce mild scents like lavender (calming) or citrus (energizing) through scented playdough, cotton balls, or diffusers. Pair scent exploration with a discussion about preferences to build self-awareness.
Benefits: Engages the olfactory system, promotes emotional regulation, and encourages communication.
9. Body Socks or Compression Clothing
Body socks are stretchy Lycra sacks that children can crawl or stretch inside, providing full-body compression. Alternatively, compression vests or shirts offer constant deep pressure for children who seek sensory input.
Benefits: Enhances body awareness, reduces sensory overload, and improves focus.
10. Visual Schedule Art Projects
Create a visual schedule using pictures or symbols to outline daily routines. Involve the child in designing the schedule with drawings, stickers, or photos. This activity can be paired with a reward chart for completed tasks.
Benefits: Reduces anxiety about transitions, fosters independence, and strengthens organizational skills.
Key Considerations for Success
- Individualize Activities: Tailor each activity to the child’s sensory profile (e.g., avoid loud noises for sound-sensitive children).
- Gradual Introduction: Introduce new activities slowly to prevent overwhelm, allowing the child to set the pace.
- Incorporate Choice: Let the child select materials or themes to increase engagement and autonomy.
Conclusion
Sensory-friendly OT activities empower children with autism to explore their environments confidently while addressing sensory needs. By integrating these strategies into daily routines, parents, educators, and therapists can help children build critical life skills, self-regulation, and resilience. Always consult with a licensed occupational therapist to customize activities based on the child’s unique strengths and challenges.
