Activities for Kids and Young Adults with Autism

Finding activities that are both engaging and supportive for kids and young adults with autism can feel overwhelming. Parents often face questions like, Will this activity meet my child’s needs? Will they enjoy it, or will it just feel like work? The truth is, no one-size-fits-all activity exists, because every child’s preferences, strengths, and challenges are unique.

Whether your child is drawn to quiet, independent play or thrives in sensory-rich, social settings, activities can be powerful tools for fostering joy, connection, and growth. The key is to tailor activities to your child’s individual needs and interests and finding opportunities to celebrate their progress along the way.

In this post, I talk about a wide variety of activities for people with autism, from sensory-friendly indoor play to structured social experiences. These ideas are designed to encourage creativity, build skills, and, most importantly, bring fun into your child’s life.

---

Key Considerations When Choosing Activities

Before we jump into specific ideas, let’s talk about a few important factors to keep in mind when choosing activities for your child or young adult with autism spectrum disorder. Tailoring activities starts with understanding their preferences and needs:

• Sensory Preferences: Some kids love sensory-rich experiences like finger painting or jumping on a trampoline, while others may prefer calming activities like sorting objects or listening to music. Recognizing your child’s sensory needs can help you choose activities they’ll enjoy.
• Social Comfort Level: Does your child prefer one-on-one interactions, small groups, or solo activities? For example, while team sports might feel overwhelming, independent activities like nature walks or creative play can be equally enriching.
• Developmental and Cognitive Needs: It’s important to match activities to your child’s abilities to ensure they feel successful. For instance, a young adult with a knack for problem-solving might enjoy coding, while a child working on fine motor skills might prefer art projects with adaptive tools.
• Incorporating Interests: If your child has a special interest, like dinosaurs, trains, or gaming, use it as a starting point! Activities connected to their passions can spark enthusiasm and increase engagement.

---

Indoor Activities for Skill-Building and Fun

When the weather isn’t cooperating (or when your child prefers the comfort of home), indoor activities can provide a safe, engaging, and supportive environment. Here are some ideas to try:

• Creative Play: Art projects can help develop fine motor skills while allowing for self-expression. Try offering tools like easy-grip brushes or textured paints to make the experience accessible and fun. DIY sensory bins are another great option, tailored to your child’s interests (think “ocean adventures” with blue beads and plastic sea creatures).
• STEM Exploration: STEM activities are educational and incredibly engaging. Younger kids might enjoy magnetic building sets while older kids and teens might like experimenting with beginner-friendly coding apps like Scratch. For a hands-on science activity, try making slime or baking soda volcanoes together.
• Mindful Movement: Yoga and movement-based activities are excellent for building coordination and supporting emotional regulation. Apps like Cosmic Kids Yoga offer kid-friendly sessions, while older kids might enjoy creating an indoor obstacle course for physical play.

---

Outdoor Activities for Physical and Social Engagement

Spending time outside can be an excellent way to provide sensory input, promote physical health, and foster social skills. Depending on your child’s preferences, here are a few recreational activities to consider:

• Nature Exploration: Go on a scavenger hunt to collect natural treasures like leaves or rocks. You can even make it sensory-friendly by using tools like magnifying glasses or apps that identify plants and animals.
• Adapted Sports: Activities like swimming, trampoline jumping, or low-pressure soccer can provide both physical activity and emotional benefits. Look for community programs offering adaptive sports to help your child build confidence and skills.
• Community Involvement: Consider outdoor meetups or programs designed with autism-friendly accommodations. Activities like adaptive hiking or gardening groups can offer a safe, structured way to interact with peers.

Activities for Fostering Social Skills and Connection

For many autistic children and adults, building social skills is an important goal, but it doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Activities that focus on shared experiences can naturally encourage connection and communication. Here are some options:

• Role-Playing Games (RPGs): Video games and collaborative games like Dungeons & Dragons offer a structured way to build teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills. For younger kids, simpler role-playing scenarios like pretend grocery shopping or playing “teacher” can encourage creativity while fostering social interaction.
• Clubs or Group Activities: Many communities offer autism-friendly programs and general social clubs like LEGO building clubs, book groups, or hobby-focused meetups. These settings are structured and often supported by facilitators who understand diverse needs, which creates a safe space for social growth.
• Volunteer Opportunities: For young people, volunteering can be a meaningful way to connect with others while building confidence and independence. Options like helping at an animal shelter, sorting books at a library, or assisting in community gardens can be rewarding experiences that also offer skill-building opportunities.

---

Tech-Based and Virtual Activities

Technology can open new doors for learning, creativity, and social interaction, especially for kids who may find in-person activities overwhelming. Here are some tech-based ideas to explore:

• Apps and Games: Educational apps like Proloquo2Go can enhance communication skills while games like Minecraft Education provide safe, structured platforms for social play and creative problem-solving. These platforms can be particularly useful for kids who enjoy gaming as a way to connect with peers.
• Virtual Clubs and Classes: Many organizations offer virtual options for kids and young adults to join interest-based groups or take classes in areas like art, coding, or even yoga. Online communities can help foster connection while providing a comfortable environment for those who prefer staying at home.

---

Tailoring Activities to Specific Needs and Goals

The most meaningful activities often support your child’s unique needs and developmental goals. Here’s how to tailor activities with intention:

• Building Emotional Regulation: Sensory activities like creating calming jars or practicing mindfulness exercises can help young children manage emotions. For older kids, journaling or guided breathing apps can provide additional support. I personally love the Smiling Mind app for myself and recommend it to families as well.
• Encouraging Independence: Activities like cooking simple recipes or completing chore-based scavenger hunts can build daily living skills. Start with step-by-step visual supports or instructions to support their success.
• Enhancing Communication: If your child (or the autistic adult in your life) uses an AAC device, incorporate it into fun activities like storytelling or role-playing games. Interactive apps or games with clear instructions can also encourage language practice in an engaging way.

One of the most important parts of choosing activities for kids and young adults with autism is to focus on progress rather than perfection. Success doesn’t have to mean mastering a skill or completing an activity flawlessly. It can be as simple as your child enjoying themselves or trying something new.

Resources for Finding and Adapting Activities

If you’re unsure where to start or want to explore more options, here are some helpful resources:

• Community Programs: Check with local autism organizations, YMCAs, or libraries for inclusive activity offerings.
• Online Platforms: Websites like Autism Speaks, The Autism Society, or sensory-friendly resource hubs often provide free or low-cost activity guides.
• Whole School Psych: Explore tailored support and additional resources here, where resources are designed to help parents create meaningful, whole-child experiences for their kids.

Every family’s activity toolkit will look different, and that’s okay. By observing your child’s interests, adapting ideas to their needs, and celebrating their progress, you’ll discover what works best for them.

Educational Activities for Cognitive and Social Engagement

Educational activities can help individuals with autism develop cognitive skills while fostering curiosity and creativity. Here are some ideas that combine learning with engagement:

Cognitive Skill-Building Activities

• Puzzles and Games: Activities like jigsaw puzzles or matching games can enhance problem-solving and visual-spatial skills.
• STEM Exploration: Building with LEGO, experimenting with science kits, or exploring coding apps like Scratch promotes critical thinking and perseverance.
• Literacy Activities: Storytelling with visual aids or using audiobooks to complement reading can support language skills development.
• Life Skills Learning: Simple cooking or budgeting exercises teach practical skills in an accessible way.

Social Activities for Cognitive and Emotional Growth

• Group Classes: Enroll in art, music, or dance classes designed for autistic individuals, fostering both creativity and interaction.
• Board Game Nights: Choose board games with clear rules to help develop turn-taking and cooperative play.
• Book or Hobby Clubs: Organized groups centered around shared interests offer low-pressure ways to connect with peers.

Sensory Activities for Kids and Young Adults with Autism

Sensory activities provide a foundation for self-regulation, focus, and emotional growth. They engage one or more of the senses (touch, sound, sight, smell, taste, movement, or body awareness) in ways that can be calming, stimulating, or just fun. These activities can meet sensory needs while offering meaningful opportunities for connection and exploration.

Benefits of Sensory Activities

• Improved Self-Regulation Skills: Sensory activities can be a great way to help individuals manage their emotions and behavior, creating a sense of balance and calm. For example, deep-pressure input from a weighted blanket can help regulate overstimulation.
• Reduced Anxiety and Stress: Predictable, engaging sensory experiences offer a mental and emotional break, allowing individuals to relax and unwind.
• Increased Focus and Attention: Activities that engage the senses can sharpen focus and attention spans, particularly for individuals who struggle with these skills.
• Opportunities for Social Interaction: Sensory activities can be shared with others, offering a chance to practice communication and social skills in a low-pressure environment.

Specific Sensory Activities to Consider

Here are some practical and engaging sensory activities tailored to different preferences and needs:

1. Sensory Bins:
   • Fill bins with materials like dry rice, beans, kinetic sand, or water beads.
   • Add themed objects (e.g., toy dinosaurs, letters, or seasonal items) to match special interests.
   • Encourage scooping, pouring, and sorting for tactile and fine motor engagement.
2. Sensory Bottles:
   • Combine water, glitter, small beads, and a few drops of food coloring in a clear bottle.
   • Use these as calming tools to watch and shake when feeling overwhelmed.
3. Movement-Based Sensory Input:
   • Trampolines or Swings: Great for sensory seekers who need vestibular input.
   • Obstacle Courses: Create courses indoors or outdoors with pillows, tunnels, or cones.
4. Calming Sensory Activities:
   • Weighted Blankets or Lap Pads: Offer deep pressure to help with relaxation.
   • Yoga: Adapt poses with visuals or guided videos like Cosmic Kids Yoga.
   • Massage or Brushing: Use sensory brushes or gentle massages for calming input.
5. Creative Sensory Play:
   • Pottery or Clay: Working with clay or Play-Doh encourages tactile exploration and creativity.
   • Art Projects: Use textured paints, sponges, or sensory-friendly art materials.
6. Music Therapy:
   • Play instruments, explore rhythm through drumming, or use apps for sound-based relaxation.
   • Structured sessions with a music therapist can build skills and emotional connection.
7. Sensory-Friendly Gardening:
   • Plant flowers or vegetables in raised beds to explore textures, smells, and even tastes.
   • Use tools like small rakes and shovels for tactile engagement.
8. Water Play:
   • Provide buckets, squirt toys, or a water table for splashing and pouring.
   • Add floating objects for games like scooping or fishing.

Tips for Choosing Sensory Activities

• Consider your child’s preferences for calming versus stimulating inputs.
• Experiment with different materials, textures, and movements to discover what they enjoy.
• Incorporate sensory activities into daily tasks and routines, such as creating a calming sensory corner at home or using sensory tools during transitions.

Therapeutic Activities for Emotional Growth and Connection

Therapeutic activities provide a structured way to address developmental, emotional, or social challenges (and even some developmental disabilities) while creating meaningful experiences. Here are some ideas:

• Equine Therapy: Working with horses can promote emotional connection, physical coordination, and sensory integration.
• Aquatic Therapy: Swimming or water-based exercises are excellent for physical and sensory regulation.
• Art Therapy: Encourages self-expression and emotional processing through guided creative activities.
• Drama and Role-Playing: Acting out scenarios or participating in improvisation builds confidence and social understanding.

Socially Focused Therapeutic Activities

• Peer Support Groups: Small groups designed for autistic individuals can create a safe space for practicing social interaction.
• Interactive Storytelling: Using props or role-play to explore emotions and relationships in a fun, accessible way.
• Music Therapy Groups: Participating in a group session with a music therapist fosters collaboration and emotional regulation.

Questions to Consider: How to Create a Unique Experience

Every autistic child or young adult is different, and the best approach and activities are those tailored to their individual needs and preferences. Asking the right questions can help families identify what will resonate most. Use these prompts as a starting point:

Understanding Sensory Needs

• Does my child seek out or avoid certain sensory inputs (e.g., loud sounds, bright lights, or tactile experiences)?
• What sensory activities help them feel calm or focused?

Exploring Interests

• What are my child’s favorite activities or topics? How can we incorporate these into new experiences?
• Are there special interests (e.g., trains, animals, or coding) we can use to spark motivation?

Matching Developmental Needs

• Does my child prefer structured or open-ended activities?
• Are they working on specific skills (e.g., communication, motor skills, or emotional regulation) that an activity can support?

Identifying Social Comfort Levels

• Does my child thrive in solo activities, one-on-one interactions, or group settings?
• How much guidance or support do they need to engage in an activity with others?

Setting Goals

• What do we hope to achieve with this activity—fun, skill-building, connection, or a mix?
• How can we measure success in a way that feels meaningful (e.g., increased engagement, fewer meltdowns, or trying something new)?

By reflecting on these questions, family members can create a personalized toolkit of activities that foster growth, connection, and joy for their loved ones with autism.

Finding meaningful activities for kids and young adults with autism is a process of exploration.

As you explore new ideas, don’t hesitate to adapt activities to suit your child’s preferences and if you’re looking for more thoughtful, whole-child strategies to support your child’s learning and growth, consider subscribing to the blog for fresh insights and resources sent directly to you!