Social Recreation Games for Toddlers With Autism

One of the trademark qualities of autistic children is that they have trouble communicating with others. This makes it difficult for parents to encourage their autistic children to engage in social play but that doesn't mean it's impossible. With patience, you will find that not only can your autistic child learn how to play games with others, but that play is a useful tool for overcoming some of the social challenges tied to autism.

  1. Computer Games

    • The intuitive nature of computer games, video games and smart phone apps may be appealing to an autistic toddler. Though face time with other humans is often more beneficial than screen time, there are plenty of interactive computer games that allow other children and adults to play alongside your toddler. The Autism Speaks website includes a long list of electronic games designed specifically for autistic children.

    Board Games

    • Simple board games are both fun and promote social skills, like following rules, how to handle losing and winning, and taking turns. Choose an age-appropriate game for your autistic toddler like Chutes and Ladders, Let's Go Fishin', Candyland or any kind of puzzle designed for a toddler. Because autistic children are often routine-oriented, it might help to incorporate one or two regular game nights into your family schedule.

    Physical Games

    • Sports can teach an autistic toddler about interactive play. Keep the physical activity simple -- even tossing a ball back and forth in the yard will promote your child's language development and eye contact with other children and adults. For older toddlers, introduce simple rules to your outdoor games. For example, set up two bases to play a modified version of baseball or kickball, or play one-on-one basketball using a toddler basketball hoop.

    Creative Games

    • Playing with dolls, musical instruments and books can all aid your autistic child in social interaction and encourage imaginative play. While reading a book to your autistic child, work on exaggerating the emotions in the story and directing attention to your face as you act it out. This will help your child correlate emotions with facial expressions. Do the same when you play with dolls -- if the doll is "sad," show your toddler how you can hug her or bring her a toy to make her feel better. Developmental psychologist Rondalyn Whitney, Ph.D., recommends buying a couple of simple instruments like a kazoo or whistle, playing a simple rhythm and having your toddler repeat it after you.

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