annie-spratt-568704-unsplashGiving your child on the autism spectrum opportunities to engage with nature not only helps them develop new interests, but it can also improve some symptoms of autism. For instance, research has shown that providing outdoor opportunities can help improve social and communication skills. The challenge is knowing where to begin and keeping your child interested. Here are five ways you can turn your backyard into a fun, safe, and functional space for your child.

Set Up Sensory Bins Outside

Many parents already use sensory bins to engage and entertain their autistic child, but setting them up outside provides a couple of distinct benefits. You can tailor the experience specifically to your child’s unique interests or needs, regardless of how messy it might get. Spilled beans, paint on the ground, or green goo everywhere isn’t so bad outside as it is in your living room. Setting up sensory bins outside makes cleanup much easier. While outdoors distractions might exist, CBS News recommends taking precautions to limit hazards. 

Make a Scavenger Hunt

There are many great outdoor activities you can do during the spring and summer, but scavenger hunts are a particularly good activity for days when school is out. You’ll be able to adjust the smells, items, or things to look at based on the season, as well as the age of your child. One way to make sure that the scavenger hunt stays interesting is to tuck away a small surprise and give your child clues about where you hid it. The surprise doesn’t have to be big, but introducing one can keep motivation and engagement high.

Give Gardening a Try 

According to the Guardian, introducing your child to your backyard garden provides them a chance to take in some of the unique sensory experiences and can give them an exciting goal-oriented responsibility. As they care for plants, they can quickly see the effect of their work and take responsibility for what they’ve done.

Additionally, the garden can provide a great spot for them to go if they’re feeling over-stimulated and just need some time to relax. To keep your child safe and prevent sensory overload, consider getting the right pair of gloves to help make the experience enjoyable.

Try Birdwatching

Regardless of how big your backyard is, there are almost always opportunities for your child to observe and learn about some of the local birds and fauna. Setting up a bird bath or bird feeder are easy ways to bring the birds around, and watching them is an opportunity for the whole family to learn about some of the birds in your area.

Go Backyard Camping as a Family

Getting a chance to be outside and stare at celestial objects through a telescope is a formula for family memories and a great chance to help your child with autism find things to love outdoors. These kinds of activities are perfect because they can be designed based on your child’s attention span or unique interests. You don’t even have to spend the whole night camping.

If you’re worried about safety or just don’t want to sleep on the ground, you can consider setting up camp for just a short time then heading inside when it’s bedtime. You can find ideas for background camping activities and make sure the night is memorable. 

The benefits of helping your child with autism get outdoors can benefit them throughout their life, and it all starts when they’re young. You’ll find some hidden benefits unique to your child. Implementing these tips can help you unlock the resilience and abilities of your child and can help them develop a unique sense of confidence and accomplishment.

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Rob Woods

Rob Woods

Rob is a dad living in Philadelphia. He enjoys DIY projects almost as much as raising his two children. He is the co-creator of FixItDads.com, which offers tips for home improvement projects.