FAQautism

Families, residential home staff, teachers, camp staff members, and others who live and play with individuals with autism are always looking for ideas to help engage their friends in active play. One avenue to explore is adapted ball games and other fun with balls.

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Shooting hoops is a great leisure activity, either alone or with another person. If necessary, you can lower the height of the basketball hoop and put a ball-catcher net behind the hoop. Some individuals with autism have such intent visual attention that they will walk away if the ball rolls out of their visual range.

T-ball is a great sport where participants hit the baseball or softball off a tee at home plate rather than attempting to hit a pitched ball. Use a baseball tee that is adaptable so you can place the ball in the range of your friend’s swing. You can use a regular baseball bat or a much larger (and safer) plastic bat. Don’t assume your friend knows how to run the bases. Teach them by literally walking them from home to first, second, third, and back home.

Volleyball is a fun sport that also needs some adaptations unless your friend with autism is athletically-inclined. It is actually easier for some individuals with autism to play one-on-one volleyball. When they play on a team, many of our friends with autism tend to just stand and watch other people play rather than getting actively involved. For folks just learning the sport or for those who are not great athletes, I like to lower the net about chin high just toss the ball back and forth rather than using standard volleyball striking technique. A person gets a point if their opponent drops the ball rather than catching it.

Kickball is a great sport for all ages and abilities. Play on a baseball field or set up bases in the backyard using flexible bicycle flags or milk jugs filled with water or some other visible way of noticing the bases. You can use a standard playground ball, but the game is really fun with a large beach ball or larger playground ball. The “batter” and “fielders” might need to be walked through the process, and some individuals with autism may need a “ball buddy” who plays alongside and gives verbal prompts.

Check in tomorrow for more ideas for ball games that can be enjoyed by individuals of all ages with autism. We welcome your input and ideas about ball games. Just click on the comments button or send an e-mail to talk@FAQautism.com.

NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me an email with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. Send email to talk@FAQautism.com And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com

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