Fall is here! The season of cozy sweaters, mugs of hot cocoa, and pumpkin spice everything. The perfect time to get down to some fun Fall craft and baking activities, especially with our autistic children. My son is a teenager. He is profoundly (Level 3) autistic and enjoys and can participate in these activities.
Engaging in these hands-on activities can be both fun and therapeutic, giving our kids a chance to express themselves, experience various textures, and relish the sensory-rich world of fall. So, prepare your craft supplies and baking aprons and dive into these enchanting autumn activities tailored for our special kiddos.
1. Fuzzy Pinecone Critters: Pinecones are abundant during fall. Turn them into adorable critters! All you need are some googly eyes, felt pieces, and pom-poms. Whether it’s a spiky hedgehog, a fuzzy squirrel, or a little bird, the tactile experience of feeling the pinecone’s texture combined with crafting can be both enjoyable and calming.
2. Sensory Spice Playdough: Make your homemade playdough with a fall twist! Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for that authentic autumnal scent. As your child molds and shapes the playdough, they'll be enveloped in the warm, comforting fragrances of the season.
3. Fall-themed Cookie Baking: Using cookie cutters in the shape of leaves, pumpkins, or even squirrels, bake cookies with your kids. Mixing, rolling, and cutting the dough can be soothing. Once baked, let your child decorate them with edible markers or safe food colors, which can be an awesome sensory experience.
4. Leafy Collages: Autumn leaves are nature’s artwork. Collect an array of colorful leaves from your backyard or park. Once home, give your child a large sheet of paper and non-toxic glue. Let their imagination take flight as they arrange and stick the leaves to form patterns, shapes, or even unique characters. This activity not only nurtures creativity but also enhances fine motor skills.
5. Paper Plate Pumpkin Masks: Grab some paper plates, paint them orange, and let your kiddo create their pumpkin face. Whether it’s a grinning jack-o-lantern or a quirky, abstract face, this activity encourages facial recognition and imaginative play.
6. Autumn Sensory Bins: Sensory bins are fabulous for tactile exploration. Fill a large container with items like dried corn kernels, acorns, soft fabric leaves, and mini pumpkins. Throw in some scooping tools and let your child delve into this sensory-rich world, feeling the different textures and improving their motor skills.
7. Cinnamon Stick Ornaments: Tie together several cinnamon sticks with a vibrant ribbon or twine to make a rustic ornament. Your child can add beads, buttons, or even dried orange slices to these. The best part? They fill your home with a mild, comforting aroma.
9. Pumpkin Painting: Carving might be too challenging, but painting? That’s where the fun is! Provide washable paints and brushes, and let your kiddos transform a plain pumpkin into a vibrant masterpiece. From polka dots to abstract swirls – the pumpkin’s canvas awaits!
10. Felt Leaf Coasters: Cut out felt pieces in the shape of autumn leaves. Let your child sew or glue them onto a base to create functional coasters. It's a tactile activity that results in a usable product – a win-win!
11. Acorn Necklaces: Stringing acorns onto a cord can be both therapeutic and fun. Once you have a bunch strung together, tie it off, and voila, you have a beautiful autumnal necklace that your child can proudly wear or gift.
15. Baked Apple Goodness: Bake a simple yet delicious baked apple recipe. Let your child fill cored apples with a mixture of oats, cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey. As they bake, they'll fill your kitchen with a mouth-watering scent, and the final product is a sensory delight – warm, soft, and oh-so-delicious
Tips for a Successful Craft and Baking Day:
Preparation: Always have your materials ready. This reduces waiting time and keeps the child engaged.
Set the Scene: A fun playlist (think soft autumn tunes) can set the mood and make the experience even more immersive.
Safety First: Always supervise closely, especially when dealing with potential allergens or hot substances. Ensure all materials are safe and non-toxic.
Guidance: Provide step-by-step instructions and demonstrate activities when necessary.
Celebrate Every Creation: Whether it’s a lopsided cookie or an abstract pinecone critter, every creation is a masterpiece. Applause and a big hug are in order!
Keep It Chill: If something’s not working, no worries! Switch it up, or take a break. The goal is to have fun and bond.
Autumn with an autistic child is like experiencing the season in high-definition. Every leaf, every spice, every moment is heightened, more vivid. So, let's make the most of this magical season, embracing its tranquility and chaos, crafting and baking our way into cherished memories. If you have family traditions or fun Fall activities to add to the list. I would love to hear from you. I’m always on the lookout for new ideas.
Happy Fall Everyone!!! 🍂🍪🎨🎃
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