Sensory play is a type of play that involves engaging the senses, such as touch, sight, sound, smell, and taste. It is a type of play that can be beneficial for children with autism, as it can help them develop a better understanding of their environment and their own bodies.
As a parent of a child with autism, I have seen first-hand the benefits of sensory play for my child. In this blog, I will share my perspective on the benefits of sensory play for children with autism and provide some tips for parents who want to incorporate sensory play into their child’s routines.
Develops Sensory Processing Skills
One of the biggest benefits of sensory play for children with autism is that it can help them develop their sensory processing skills.
Children with autism may have difficulty processing sensory information, which can lead to sensory overload or sensory-seeking behaviours.
Sensory play can help children with autism learn to process sensory information more effectively and can help them regulate their sensory systems.
For example, my child enjoys playing with slime and putty, which provides him with the tactile input that he craves. Playing with these materials has helped him learn to regulate his sensory system and has reduced his sensory-seeking behaviours.
Promotes Communication And Social Skills
Sensory play can also be a great way to promote communication and social skills.
Children with autism may have difficulty with communication and social interactions, and sensory play can provide a non-threatening way to engage with others.
For example, my child enjoys playing with bubbles and likes to pop them with his friends. This simple game has helped him learn to take turns, share, and communicate with others.
Develops Motor Skills
Another benefit of sensory play for children with autism is that it can help them develop their fine and gross motor skills.
Sensory play activities, such as playing with sand, water, or play dough, require children to use their hands and fingers in different ways, which can help develop their fine motor skills. Activities like jumping on a trampoline or swinging on a swing can help develop gross motor skills.
For my child, sand play is a favourite sensory play activity that has helped him develop his balance and coordination and I used to get the sensory playground equipment from Creative Play.Â
Reduces AnxietyÂ
Sensory play can also be a great way to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Children with autism may experience high levels of anxiety and sensory play can provide a calming effect.
For example, my child enjoys playing with kinetic sand, which has a soothing effect on him. Playing with this material has become part of his relaxation routine and has helped reduce his anxiety levels.
If you are a parent of a child with autism and would like to incorporate sensory play into your child’s routine, here are some tips to help you get started:
- Start with simple activities: Sensory play does not have to be complicated or expensive. Start with simple activities that are easy to set up and require minimal materials. For example, you can fill a bin with rice or beans and let your child explore the different textures.
- Provide a variety of sensory experiences: Offer your child a range of sensory experiences, such as tactile, visual, and auditory. This can help your child develop a better understanding of their environment and their own body.
- Observe your child: Pay attention to your child’s reactions to different sensory experiences. This can help you determine what activities your child enjoys and what activities may be overwhelming.
- Make it fun: Sensory play should be a fun and enjoyable experience for your child. Make sure to choose activities that your child enjoys and allow your child to explore at their own pace. This can even include food!
- Incorporate sensory play into your child’s routine: Make sensory play a regular part of your child’s routine. This can help your child develop a sense of predictability and routine, which can be calming for children with autism.
Written by Jim HolyoakÂ