FAQautism

Sometimes we get so wrapped up in dealing with the ins and outs of autism that we forget about good, old-fashioned fun. Several of my friends realized their youngsters with autism were missing out on the joys of playing in the backyard simply because the parents had not thought to put some things in the backyard for free play.

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SANDBOX. You can build a traditional sandbox in the ground, or you can fill a small swimming pool with sand. Throw in a few small plastic shovels and toy trucks and watch the fun unfold. Some youngsters with autism may not like the texture of the sand initially, but most learn to enjoy digging in the sand after a few days.

WATER SPRINKLER. Hook up one of the fun kid sprinkler toys on the water hose or just turn on the water sprinkler in the backyard in the heat of a sunny day, or. One of my young adult friends with autism loves to sit in his lawn chair under the light mist of the water sprinkler.

SWING. Nearly every person I know with autism loves the repetitive rhythm of swinging. Hang a tire swing from a tree or install a swing set. Hang a hammock swing – the kind you sit in – on a frame or from the limb of a tree.

BASKETBALL. Give your friend with autism a chance to get some exercise, improve their motor skills, and enjoy time outdoors by installing a basketball goal and keeping the basketball handy. Shooting hoops is a great activity alone or with friends.

TREE HOUSE. Let your youngster help you build a tree house. If safety is an issue, build the tree house close to the ground, or just put a giant cardboard box in the backyard for your youngster with autism to enjoy.

TIP FOR THE DAY: These are just a few of the options for encouraging your youngster with autism to spend time outdoors independently. No need to spend a lot of money. Just think of things you enjoyed as a child and make them available to your child – even if your child is a young adult – so they can enjoy hanging out in the backyard.

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 a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. 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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