Hobbies And Interests
0-2 Years
Finding toys and games that interest an autistic child in this age group may not be easy, but good bets are hands-on toys to help them figure out their senses. Balls with various textures help children in this age group learn to pick up, throw and catch. Toys that can be ridden on enable toddlers to use their imaginations. Bubbles are something that catch the interest of young children; it can also be a challenge to learn to blow them. Stacking toys are good for teaching hand eye coordination, as children learn to identify shapes and group things together.
2-4 Years
It is important to keep autistic children physically engaged in activities and give them plenty of hands-on time as they get older, in order to keep their interest. Provide toys that have different shapes and colors; most autistic children like to sort and match like objects. Puzzles are interesting as well, because they are similar to matching, which keeps an autistic child's interest. Musical toys that can be played are helpful to enhance motor skills; hearing the different sounds helps to differentiate between them.
5+Years
Keeping the interest of children with autism and helping them interact with others is especially important with this age group, as they are now beginning school and learning to communicate with others. In doing so, board games for their appropriate age group are a way to let children play while helping them interact with their peers. Playing outside is another great way to keep an autistic child involved with others. Playgrounds with slides, swings and things to climb are especially popular.