Kids’ Activities for World Autism Awareness Day
You want to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd. But, you don’t have an event planned (or you haven’t planned on attending an event). What now? There are plenty of kid-friendly activities to try at home. While these might not raise awareness on a global scale, they can help your child to better understand autism and may even make her more likely to help others by starting a positive discussion.
What activities can your child do at home to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day?
Read a book. A few children’s books on the subject include “Leah’s Voice” by Lori DeMonia, “My Friend Has Autism” by Amanda Doering Tourville and “The Autism Acceptance Book: Being A Friend to Someone with Autism” by Ellen Sabin.
Ask an open-ended introduction question. It’s very possible that your child has heard the word “autism,” but doesn’t really know what it means. Try a discussion starter such as, “What is autism?” or, “What do you know about autism?” Write your child’s answers in a journal or on poster board. Compare them to answers that you find online from a resource such as Autism Speaks.
Set up a sensory simulation. Some individuals with autism find sensory stimuli overwhelming. Help your child to better understand by turning on several different pieces of music at once (play a few different CDs from different sources).
Make a puzzle pattern. The puzzle ribbon has been the symbol of autism awareness since 1999. Make your own ribbon by painting puzzle pieces onto card stock paper or creating a crafty collage!
Wear blue clothes. The ‘Light It Up Blue’ campaign celebrates autism awareness. Mark April 2nd by wearing blue clothing on the day.
