The Benefits of Outdoor Play for Children with Autism
There are great advantages for children with Autism to have some outdoor play time, in this blog we discuss some of these benefits.
All children can enjoy outdoor play. Fresh air, sunshine and even sometimes the rain can be a real tonic. You will need to take into consideration your child’s needs – be it physical, cognitive or sensory – but there are some great benefits to outdoor play for children with autism. It can help to develop lots of different skills and give them the freedom and space to interact and play.
In this blog, Special Kids Company will highlight some of the advantages to playing outdoors for children with autism.
It can help boost their confidence and self-esteem
Playing outdoors, either on their own or with other children, can help your child to develop their independence and boost their confidence. They may find friendships and build relationships with others through play. They may also learn to be in different social situations, which can help them to develop coping mechanisms when outside of the house.
It can help to develop their social and communication skills
Many children with autism struggle with social and communication skills. Playing with other children outside may help your child to develop or enhance these skills. They may have to take turns or share toys, but with support they learn how to behave socially around other children in a natural, calming environment.
It can help to develop their fine and gross motor skills
Outdoor play can help to develop fine and gross motor skills. Be it kicking a ball, bouncing on a trampoline or blowing bubbles. Outdoor Activities such as swinging, jumping, and playing with textured materials can help individuals with ASD develop better body awareness and coordination.
It can help them to find new interests
Children with autism can be very rigid in their routine and interests. Outdoor play can help them to find new interests, such as outdoor sports or riding a bike.
It can help them to exercise and stay active
Being outdoors plays a crucial role in children staying exercising and being active. In turn, this can help to improve your child’s physical and mental health.
It can let them enjoy more sensory play
Let’s be honest, some sensory play is messy and best carried out in the garden outside. Being outdoors can let your child enjoy sensory experiences like painting, playing in a sandbox or water play.
It can help them to enjoy the natural world
A walk in the park, by the seaside or even just hanging out in your garden – there is so much to enjoy outdoors and for free. Perhaps your child might like bird watching, gardening or paddling at the seaside – these outdoor activities are good for the soul and priceless.
Side note: It is important to take the correct steps to ensure that your child is safe whilst playing outside. Beware of any open water, unfenced play areas, stranger danger and your child’s sensory needs – particularly if your child has no danger awareness.