In our diverse world, it’s crucial to create inclusive environments where every child, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and participate fully. For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory-friendly activities play a vital role in providing enjoyable experiences while accommodating their unique sensory needs. Understanding the importance of inclusion and offering a variety of sensory-friendly activities can make a significant difference in these children’s lives.
Inclusion is not just about providing physical access; it’s about creating environments where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. For children with autism, inclusion means being able to participate in activities that cater to their sensory sensitivities without feeling overwhelmed or excluded. When children with autism feel included, they develop a sense of belonging, confidence, and self-esteem, which are essential for their overall well-being and development.
Sensory-Friendly Activities:
Sensory Play:
- Kinetic sand or playdough activities provide tactile stimulation without overwhelming textures.
- Water play in a shallow tub or sensory table allows children to explore different textures and temperatures.
- Sensory bins filled with materials like rice, beans, or shredded paper provide opportunities for exploration and tactile stimulation.
Visual Activities:
- Light shows or calming visual projections can create a soothing environment for children with autism.
- Painting or drawing activities using different colors and textures can be both stimulating and therapeutic.
- Picture books with simple, repetitive illustrations can help children with autism engage with storytelling in a comfortable way.
Auditory Activities:
- Quiet music or nature sounds can create a calming atmosphere for sensory-sensitive children.
- Sound exploration activities using musical instruments or sensory toys with auditory feedback can be enjoyable and engaging.
- Audio books or storytelling sessions with headphones allow children to control the volume and pace of the narrative.
Movement Activities:
- Swinging or rocking activities provide rhythmic motion, which can be calming for children with autism.
- Yoga or gentle stretching exercises promote body awareness and relaxation.
- Sensory-friendly playgrounds with equipment designed for sensory input, such as swings and climbing structures, offer opportunities for physical activity and sensory exploration.
Social Activities:
- Sensory-friendly movie screenings or theater performances provide a supportive environment for children with autism to enjoy cultural experiences.
- Sensory-friendly playdates or group activities with structured routines and clear expectations help children with autism feel more comfortable in social settings.
- Animal-assisted therapy programs offer opportunities for social interaction and emotional support in a calming environment.
Sensory-Friendly Activities in Austin
The Thinkery Museum for children in Austin offers a number of stimulating and educational exhibits. The Thinkery hosts special ‘Sensory Friendly’ hours at the museum in which children with autism are invited to enjoy modified museum exhibits with less stimuli than usual.
Alamo Drafthouse, offer sensory-sensitive movie showings. In these movie screenings, the sound is turned down lower than usual and lights are on a bit brighter to accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Regal’s My Way Matinee gives everyone the opportunity to experience a movie with the lights turned up and the volume turned down.
AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing!
Urban Air offers events specifically designed for children with Autism and special needs to enjoy time at the park without loud music, flashing lights- and to have a lot of fun!
Chuck E. Cheese is proud to support families who have children with autism and other special needs. Through our Sensory Sensitive Sundays program we’re able to offer families a quieter dining and entertainment environment, dimmed lighting and a sensory-friendly arcade experience.
Joshua’s Stage is an enrichment program for special needs individuals featuring After-School programs, Camps, Theater Arts & More!
All Abilities Night at iFLY is a unique event that makes the dream of flight a reality for those in the special needs community. This program has been custom designed for those with physical and cognitive challenges to create an environment of support and inclusion.
Ready Go Swim provides swim lessons and has experience working with special needs of all kinds, including people with Autism, Down’s Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy, as well as deaf students and those who are visually impaired.
Little Land’s Sensory Art program is designed to give children an experience that engages multiple senses at once, while also exposing them to the seven elements of art: color, shape, line, texture, space, form, and value.
Play for All Abilities Park is 51,000-sq.-ft. playground that accommodates special-needs kids for therapy, learning & play.
Inclusion is not just a goal; it’s a fundamental principle that enriches our communities and strengthens our bonds. By embracing sensory-friendly activities and promoting inclusivity, we can create environments where children with autism can thrive and fulfill their potential. Whether it’s through sensory play, visual activities, auditory experiences, movement exercises, or social interactions, every child deserves the opportunity to participate in activities that cater to their unique needs and preferences. Together, let’s celebrate diversity and create a world where every child feels valued, accepted, and included.
