Children with autism often experience sensory challenges. They sometimes have difficulty with fine motor or gross motor skills. Additionally, some children with autism struggle with receptive and expressive language skills which can make communicating with others challenging. Kids with ASD may also struggle with social skills, such as engaging in group activities, making and keeping friends, or finding others who have similar interests. The unique experiences of children with autism can make some activities more challenging than they would be for non-autistic peers. However, children with ASD can partake in fun activities with their peers and independently, as well.

Fall Activities for Kids with Autism

We will share some engaging fall activities that can be particularly beneficial and enjoyable for children with autism. These activities offer sensory exploration, structured engagement, and social learning opportunities which are beneficial for kids with ASD.

Nature Walks and Leaf Collecting

Nature walks can be beneficial for children with autism. They can offer a calming sensory experience. They encourage observation skills. They promote physical activity which supports physical and mental health. Nature walks are an activity which can encourage bonding with others. They can also reduce stress and anxiety.

Some children may enjoy collecting leaves with different textures, shapes, and colors, which can also support fine motor skills and tactile exploration. One idea is to create a “leaf scavenger hunt” with a checklist for specific colors or types of leaves to encourage attention to detail and observation.

Pumpkin Painting or Decorating

Instead of traditional carving, which can be messy and may be overwhelming for some children with autism, opt for painting pumpkins. Offer a variety of non-toxic paints, stickers, and decorations to let children personalize their pumpkin without sensory overload. Handling brushes or small stickers can strengthen fine motor abilities and hand-eye coordination, as well.

Sensory Bins with Fall Elements

Fill a sensory bin with dry corn kernels, acorns, pinecones, and small pumpkins. This activity can provide both sensory stimulation and a calming effect. Use small figures or scoops to encourage imaginative play, language development, and sensory exploration. Just be sure to supervise any child who is at risk of putting small items in their mouth. If the child has a history of this type of behavior, opt for larger items that can’t be swallowed along with a safer base option. For example, instead of using dry corn kernels, use sand and choose larger fidget items.

Visit an Orchard or Farm

Visiting an orchard or a farm during the fall can be a great activity for children with autism. There are numerous sensory experiences children can experience. There are many opportunities to work on various skills, such as social skills, community safety skills, communication skills, trying new things (encouraging psychological flexibility), and improving gross motor or fine motor skills.

Apple picking, for example, offers a repetitive, structured task that can be soothing and rewarding. Picking apples or selecting vegetables can also help build independence and decision-making skills. Look for less crowded times to reduce potential stress from overstimulation for children who get overwhelmed when there is a high number of people in their environment.

Sensory-Enhanced Storytime with Fall-Themed Books

Choose books with textures or interactive elements like pop-ups. This can captivate attention and build language skills in a controlled setting. Read the same story multiple times if the child finds comfort in repetition. Familiarity can help them engage with the narrative on a deeper level. It can also reduce stress and anxiety.

Autumn-Themed Arts and Crafts

Certain crafts can support creativity while providing a sensory-friendly art experience. Art projects are an excellent way for children to express themselves without verbal language and can help build self-esteem. You can find countless craft ideas that are sensory friendly online.

Here are three simple, sensory-friendly fall crafts that children with autism can enjoy. Each one offers structured, hands-on engagement and can be easily adjusted to match individual sensory preferences.

1. Leaf Rubbing Art
   1. Materials: Leaves, white paper, and crayons (or colored pencils)
   2. Instructions: Place a leaf under a sheet of paper. Show the child how to rub the crayon over the paper, revealing the leaf’s texture and shape.
   3. Benefits: This craft provides gentle tactile and visual sensory input. It’s simple and structured, and the repetitive motion of rubbing can be calming. Additionally, it encourages focus on fine motor skills.
2. Fall Sticker Collage
   1. Materials: Paper or poster board, fall-themed stickers (leaves, acorns, holiday designs, etc.)
   2. Instructions: Let the child decorate the paper or poster board using the stickers however they like.
   3. Benefits: This craft is mess-free. It’s also a good way to work on fine motor skills and give children a chance to create without sensory overload.
3. Pinecone Bird Feeders
   1. Materials: Pinecones, sunflower seed butter (or peanut butter if allergies aren’t a concern), birdseed, string.
   2. Instructions: Spread sunflower seed butter over the pinecone, then roll it in birdseed. Tie a string to the top and hang it outside to attract birds.
   3. Benefits: This project provides sensory exploration through touch and smell. It also offers an opportunity to connect with nature, as children can watch birds enjoying their creation. The steps are simple, and it’s easy to clean up.

Children with autism can engage in many of the same activities as their peers. With consideration of the child’s sensory needs, skills and abilities, and needs, kids with ASD can have fun with a variety of activities in the fall season.