Hey parents — I know how frustrating it can feel when your child isn’t interested in toys. I’ve been there! Over time, I’ve discovered so many ways to keep my child engaged, happy, and learning without stress. Here’s a go-to list of ideas you can try at home.
1. Sensory Play
- Rice or bean sensory bin with cups and scoops
- Sand or water table play
- Shaving cream painting
- Playdough or clay molding
- Bubble wrap popping
- Textured fabrics exploration
2. Movement & Gross Motor
- Jumping on a mini-trampoline
- Obstacle courses with cushions and chairs
- Dance parties with music
- Rolling or tossing soft balls
- Swinging or spinning safely
- Nature walks with collecting leaves, sticks, or rocks
3. Creative & Arts
- Finger painting
- Sticker collages
- Stamping with ink pads or vegetables
- Coloring with crayons, markers, or chalk
- Simple music-making (shakers, drums, xylophone)
- Building with LEGO, blocks, or stacking cups
4. Everyday Life as Play
- Sorting laundry by color or size
- Helping in the kitchen (stirring, pouring, measuring)
- Organizing toys or books
- Watering plants
- Folding napkins or towels
- Emptying or filling containers
5. Technology & Interactive Learning
- Educational apps for numbers, letters, or shapes
- Music or rhythm apps
- Drawing or coloring apps
- Simple cause-and-effect games
6. Calm & Focus Activities
- Puzzles
- Lacing or threading beads
- Matching or sorting cards
- Stacking cups or rings
- Simple board games or matching games
Tips to Make Play Enjoyable
- Follow their interests — start with what they love.
- Short sessions — 5–10 minutes can work better than long periods.
- Join them — mirror what they do and gradually introduce new activities.
- Keep it low-pressure — the process is more important than the finished product.
- Celebrate small wins — even lining up blocks is progress!
💌 Remember: Play doesn’t have to look “normal” to be meaningful. Your child is exploring, learning, and having fun — in their own unique way.
For more tips, resources, and ideas for autistic children, subscribe at hirahcares.org
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