How to Engage Autistic Children in Activities

Autism is a developmental disorder that, according to Medical News Today, results in problems with non-verbal communication skills and social skills. Children are typically diagnosed with autism as toddlers around two or three years old when developmental traits are shown as abnormal. Engaging an autistic child in activities is sometimes challenging because of the developmental problems the child might display.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the child's motivations. According to the Autism Treatment Center, autistic children have internal motivations that often display as obsessive. These obsessions are interests the child shows in an object or activity, such as an interest in cars or a specific toy.

    • 2

      Design activities around the child's motivational interests. Once an interest is determined, create activities for the child around the interest. If the goal is getting the child to play and interact with other children, set up the game being played around the interest previously determined. For example, play a racing game with cars, using the obsession as a motivating factor.

    • 3

      Allow the child to stop the activity when he or she wants. Avoid forcing an autistic child to engage in an activity after interest in the activity is diminished.

    • 4

      Interact with the child according to the child's actions. When engaging an autistic child in activities, a key part of getting the child to behave in socially appropriate behavior is reacting to their actions and behavior. Allow the child to start interaction with an action, such as smiling or crying, and react according to the behavior. If a child cries, sing a soothing song or comfort the child. If the child smiles and laughs, continue the activity making them laugh.

    • 5

      Introduce one new activity at a time. Autistic children need a routine, and while taking them out of their comfort zone can help the child learn and develop skills, introducing one activity at a time will minimize anxiety and find out what the child enjoys or does not enjoy.

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