Anyone who knows a child on the autism spectrum knows that sensory issues come with the territory. However, gearing up for a summer filled with backyard activities that are inclusive of everyone does not need to be as challenging as it might sound. In fact, with a few safety precautions, using it as an opportunity for sensory integration can actually help enhance the development of children on the spectrum. Today, Spectrum Parenting Blog offers the following guide to activities that you can do in your very own backyard!
The Sensory Systems
If you know someone with autism, you’re likely aware of several types of sensory systems that the condition can impact. While not every system in every person is impacted the same way, at least one or more of these systems is probably impacted. From a developmental standpoint, even children who are not diagnosed as being on the spectrum may have sensory issues that fun backyard activities can help address. According to Autism Awareness Centre Inc., backyard activities like playing barefoot in the grass or in a sandbox can help address sensory issues. Knowing whether the child is over-responsive or under-responsive will help you tailor each activity more effectively.
Tactile System
The tactile sensory system, in general, includes touch, texture, and feelings of hot and cold. A child who has a defensive response to food textures or other touch experiences is not necessarily autistic. For example, people who are extremely ticklish have a tactile sensory dysfunction, but not everyone who is extremely ticklish is autistic.
However, any child who suffers from these types of sensory processing issues can benefit from similar tactile activities. Swimming is a great backyard activity for enhancing tactile sensory processing since it provides a whole-body experience.
Before adding a pool to your backyard, make sure you have your property surveyed by a professional to determine your boundaries, and work with a trusted contractor who has experience building pools. Relying on professionals from the start will ensure that you face fewer issues later on.
Vestibular System
The vestibular sensory system affects visual-spatial abilities, relying on the structures of the inner ear. Children with vestibular system dysfunctions may exhibit symptoms when they move their head (or refuse to do so) or experience changes in elevation or body position, resulting in a fear of climbing, swinging, or sliding down a slide. These fears are also not unique to those on the autism spectrum, but the anxiety may be less apparent, exhibiting as a general fear of heights or falling.
Because vestibular processing is so important to physical activity, exercising this system is extremely important. Swinging and jumping activities, like jumping rope or playing hopscotch, can be great activities for improving vestibular processing. Children with an overactive vestibular sensory system may thoroughly enjoy and seek extreme versions of these experiences. Since children experiencing vestibular system issues may also lack balance or coordination, it is important to supervise them during these activities.
Proprioceptive System
Brain Balance notes that the proprioceptive system also presents a visual-spatial issue in children with autism; it affects posture, balance, coordination, and other involuntary bodily movement and positioning. Typical symptoms include unusual or contorted positions or movements.
Fun summer activities like digging in the dirt (consider investing in some quality gloves first), hanging from a set of monkey bars, or other physically demanding play can help kids with proprioceptive dysfunction improve their coordination. Children who experience issues with their proprioceptive system may seem clumsy or uncoordinated. It is important to monitor their activities but also keep them active, helping them build better balance and control of their own body.
Remember that young children with autism don’t necessarily understand danger and might have a tendency to wander. You should look into having a good fence professionally installed in your backyard to help keep your child secure and provide a definite sense of place for play and exercise. As you plan your summer and activities, take steps to address safety in and around your home and backyard. If you choose swimming or other sensory activities, ensure there are safety devices and supervision to prevent accidents so everyone can enjoy the season.
Spectrum Parenting Blog is here to share tips and stories about parenting. If you have any questions, we’d love to hear from you!
Guest Post by Martin Block
Check out his website at Able Rise
