Creating safe and engaging activities for their children is a priority for many parents, especially as warm weather sets in. In spring and summer, there are several ways you can make your backyard a haven for your child on the autism spectrum.
For children on the autism spectrum, it’s essential to make safe spaces that will encourage learning and help them feel comfortable. Plus, you and your family can do several activities together outdoors.
The key is to develop a good plan so your child will stay engaged and curious. Consider their needs to ensure they’ll stay safe and the best ways to get your family involved in their favorite backyard activities.
Creating A Safe Backyard For A Child On The Autism Spectrum
Making learning fun will keep them engaged and happy and allow bonding time for all your loved ones. Keep reading for some of the best tips on how to make your backyard a safe, functional space for your child on the autism spectrum.
While there are many unique ways to help make your backyard fun for your autistic child, some safety measures should be considered. Today, we’ll discuss things to avoid and some fun ways to ensure you and your child have a great time outdoors!
Avoid Standing Water
Children on the autism spectrum tend to love water. While water has many therapeutic uses, standing water can cause real danger. Autistic children don’t often realize the dangers of drowning. Even a small kiddy pool with a foot of water can be risky.
If you plan on having a small pool, drain it when not in use.
Having a Fence and Gate
It is always a great idea to have a fence from Timber Ridge Fence Company and a gate for your backyard when possible This allows your child with autism the safety to run around their backyard without the worry of wandering. Northland Fence of Minnesota is a great professional who can get the fence up quickly.
Put Away any Dangerous Items.
Whether your child is autistic or not, kids are curious by nature! Make sure you put away any items that may be dangerous to them. This includes lawnmowers, other dangerous equipment, and any lawn chemicals you may keep. The best (and most straightforward way) to keep these items is in a locked shed. Make sure to put the key to someone they will not find, or use a combination lock.
Now for the ways to make your backyard fun for your child on the autism spectrum!
Plant a garden
Gardening is an excellent activity for children on the autism spectrum because it’s quiet. You can move at your own pace, allowing lots of sensory play without creating an overload. It’s also great for movement and activity, which the entire family can do together.
Working with one another to build something will promote teamwork, and you can enjoy the health benefits if you choose to plant vegetables or fruit. It’s essential to make sure you have the right tools. Everyone taking part will need protective gloves, sunscreen, and water for hydration.
Bugs can make getting in the backyard hard for your child on the spectrum, and keeping more dangerous chemicals around can be nerve-racking. One solution would be to have a company come out and spray your yard for mosquitoes every few weeks. Check out this link for bug removal.
Create a bird-watching station.
There’s a reason why bird watching tops Plexus’ list of family-friendly outdoor activities. Birds are fascinating creatures and provide many opportunities to learn from the safety of your backyard.
Create a station where your child can watch and learn by setting up a comfortable area to sit and put together simple bird feeders, look at bird guides, and watch the species in your area through binoculars.
You probably already have the makings for a bird feeder in your home. A pine cone covered in peanut butter and rolled in birdseed will do the trick. Or try a row of Cheerios strung onto a pipe cleaner.
Have a Campout
Many kids love camping because it’s a little break from the norm. Sleeping under the stars, making marshmallows over a campfire, and taking time away from electronics to see how people lived before the days of technology can be lots of fun.
The great thing is that you can do it in your backyard with some preparation and some gear. You don’t even have to buy a tent if your budget doesn’t allow it; drape some sheets from a tree and secure them with a clothesline.
Make a butterfly feeder.
Butterflies are beautiful and mysterious little creatures that provide excellent learning opportunities for kids because of the way they transform. Talk to your child about the different gestation periods for butterflies, and look for cocoons in the backyard during spring.
Build a butterfly garden using a few small, shallow trays. Fill one with water, add stones the butterflies can land on to get a drink, and place butterfly nectar in the others.
Creating A Safe Backyard For Children On The Autism Spectrum
Getting your child outdoors and interested in learning is a great way to keep him engaged, and it will allow for some family bonding at the same time. Talk to your child about every step of your outdoor activities and look for new learning opportunities.
We hope you enjoyed these great tips on creating the perfect backyard garden for your child on the autism spectrum. Make sure to check out our autism parenting section for some more unique pieces of advice to help you along your parenting journey!