Is it okay for a child with ASD to play outdoors? Spending time outdoors is important to most people. It is beneficial for mental health and helps to ensure that the body gets enough Vitamin D.
Yet, for kids with autism, it can be both enjoyable and a bit risky if you’re unsure how to do so safely. Autism activities done outdoors can open your child’s world to new ideas and activities.
At Discover Camp Worth in Texas, we can help you every step of the way.
Making Playing Outdoors with ASD Safe
Before creating autism activities for your child, be sure you make the outdoor safe enough for your child. Inspect the area that they will get to explore to make sure it is secure. You want to teach them what is dangerous and what is not, such as being on the sidewalk and away from cars. At the same time, you want to ensure they are always monitored. Choose an area where you’re confident they will find new things to do and explore.
Types of Activities for Your Child with ASD While Playing Outdoors
This is really a hard decision to make because every child with autism is a bit different. What they like and do not like differs so much that parents need to make decisions based on what’s right for their child.
Here are some things to consider.
- Create sensory opportunities – A sandbox can be an excellent way to do this. It also can help with fine motor skill development.
- Engaging opportunities work well – This may include things like blowing bubbles or spending some time using sidewalk chalk to draw. Allow their creativity to be explored.
- Encourage water play – Playing with water can be a lot of fun for children with autism. This may be as simple as a small pool they can sit in with just a few inches of water. Or, if there is parental guidance, consider a traditional pool.
- Build obstacle courses – For some children, obstacle courses are a fantastic type of outdoor activity. They can help with improving movement while also helping to burn off energy. Choose the complexity that challenges your child but is still attainable.
- Engage in nature – Find ways to allow your child to learn about and engage in nature, such as birdwatching or looking for signs of animal habitats. They may enjoy gardening. Some children love bird feeding.
- Consider the value of sports – Autism activities can include sports activities. Some children do well with games like mini-golf or frisbee. Others love basketball or t-ball. Try something new this season.
Find Autism Activities Right for Your Child with Us
At Discover Camp Worth in Texas, your child will have the ability to engage in an autism training program and a range of activities right here. We offer a variety of programs designed to help your child to explore, learn, and grow. That includes playing outdoors with ASD in a meaningful and enjoyable manner. If your child needs some help to improve their high functioning skills, our team can do that for you through customized treatment plans.
Learn more about how we can help with our programs such as:
- Individual therapy program
- Autism education program
- Functional skills training program
- Family counseling program
Learn How Discover Camp Worth in Texas Can Help When You Call Our Team
Playing outdoors with ASD can be safe, and it can be important for your child’s overall wellbeing. Yet, like with all autism activities, you need some help ensuring it’s done properly to maintain safety.
Our team at Discover Camp Worth in Texas can offer some ideas and support for you along the way. Learn more about our program when you give us a call at 855.915.2545 or reach our counselors online.
