In the world of autistic children, social interactions and games are often not as natural and enjoyable as they are for typical children. They may resist communication with others and lack interest in common games. However, through carefully designed small games, we can not only stimulate the participation of autistic children but also promote their social skills and emotional development in games. Here are five small games designed specifically for autistic children that may bring a bright color to their world.
1. Role-playing game: Little Supermarket
Prepare some simple props, such as toy shopping carts, fruit models, vegetable cards, etc., and simulate the scene of shopping in a supermarket with the child. Parents can play the role of cashier or customer, guiding the child to play the role of store clerk or shopper. By simulating shopping, checkout, and other daily activities, not only can children exercise their language expression abilities, but also enhance their understanding of social rules, gradually reducing resistance to social interactions.
2. Music and rhythm game: Clap Song
Choose simple and easy-to-learn clap songs or nursery rhymes, sing and perform actions with the child. This game can stimulate the child’s auditory and kinesthetic responses, promote the development of physical coordination. More importantly, with synchronized rhythm, children can feel the fun of interaction with others, gradually opening up and willing to participate in more social activities.
3. Puzzle and construction game: Creative Architect
Provide blocks or puzzles of different shapes and colors, encourage children to freely use their imagination to build their own small world. During this process, parents can join in at the right time and cooperate with the child to complete a project. By solving problems together and sharing the joy of success, children can learn to collaborate with others and enhance their willingness to socialize.
4. Emotional cognition game: Guess the Facial Expressions
Create a series of facial expression cards representing different emotions (such as happy, angry, sad, etc.). Parents show the cards to the child, let them guess and imitate the expressions on the cards. This game not only helps children identify and understand other people’s emotions but also improves their emotional expression abilities, laying a good foundation for future social interactions.
5. Nature exploration game: Little Explorer
Take children outdoors or to a safe natural environment for activities such as treasure hunting or observing small animals. By guiding children to observe natural phenomena, discover new things, and stimulating their curiosity and desire to explore. During the exploration process, parents can encourage children to share their discoveries, exchange experiences with peers, thereby cultivating their social skills and confidence.
These five small games are not only simple and practical but also full of fun, can promote the social development of autistic children imperceptibly. Parents can flexibly choose or adapt game content based on the interests and characteristics of their children, making games a happy companion for their children’s growth. At the same time, remember to have enough patience and encouragement for the children, believe that with the companionship of love, they will be able to bravely step out of their world and embrace a broader world. [Contact for removal if infringement].
