Through the use of fun activities, you can help your autistic child connect with the world around him. There is an array of activities supremely suited to autistic children. Not only do these activities help your child develop his skills and learn about the world in which he lives, but they will also keep him entertained, a task that proves challenging for many parents.

Feeler Boxes

Tap into your autistic child’s tactile sense by creating feeler boxes. To prepare this activity, gather boxes and cut a hole in the side of each. Place different objects into each box, selecting things with particularly uncommon textures, such as corn huskers’ lotion, a piece of faux fur and a smooth and glossy leaf. Encourage your child to reach into each box one at a time and allow his fingers to experience the feel of the object contained within. If your child is old enough to write, add some educational value to this activity by asking him to select one of the boxes and write a story about what he thinks it contains.

Recorder Band

Many autistic children are soothed by the sounds of music. If your child seems to find melodic creation relaxing, allow him to make his own music by building a recorder band. Buy several recorders for your child and his friends to use. Teach your tot the basics of this simple musical instrument. As he dedicates himself to practice, he will become more adept at playing this simple instrument type and will be able to use his new-found skill for self-soothing when need be.

Story Pictures

If your autistic child, like many, is a visual learner, engage him in the creation of story pictures. To start this simple activity with your child, select an age-appropriate book and gather some art supplies. Lay the art supplies out in front of your child and read him the selected book. Ask him to draw a picture to accompany the text after you finish the tale or, in the case of a longer book, while you read. If the book has pictures, do not allow your child to see these images, as they may sway what he elects to draw.

Reading Cave

Many autistic kids are more sensitive to light than their peers. By providing your light-sensitive child with a dimmer environment, you may be able to help him calm himself. Mix this environment dimming with education by creating a reading cave for your child. Use old blankets or sheets to create a cave under a table or in a corner of the room. Encourage your child to venture into this cave alone, or join him in this safe place for a round of reading. As your child begins to feel at home in this safe, low-light space, he will likely become more eager to read.