The Benefits Of Sensory Activities For Children With Autism
April is World Autism Acceptance Month and sensory based activities for Autism are effective learning tools that engage all areas of a child's brain, helping them with their cognitive, emotional, physical, social and communication development. Here are specific ways Claymates taps into that imperative need for sensory play:
- Language: When you play, you often talk about what you’re doing, create dialogue for imaginary roleplay or express your emotions through laughter and sound. This helps autistic children with their communication skills, even those who are non-verbal.
- Social Skills: As well as creating imaginary worlds with characters and scenes, children learn a lot of social skills through sharing, taking turns and listening to others.
- Fine/gross motor skills: Children develop hand-eye coordination and stronger muscles by squeezing, patting, and pounding the clay.
- Self-Regulation: Over time, sensory play helps children with autism learn how to respond to sensory stimulation in more positive ways, which boosts their self-control.
And last but certainly not least, it’s FUN! Get creative and get lost in your imagination with Claymates!
This month we are proud to partner with So Kids SOAR on Tuesday April 30th, for a FREE virtual Claymates art clinic! Space is limited- click here to sign up. So kids SOAR is 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides life-changing programs that empower youth with physical and developmental disabilities to Strive, Own, Achieve and Realize their potential. The Executive Director, Glenda Fu Smith shares, “April will be a special month for us as we begin a partnership with Claymates for a virtual art clinic AND celebrate World Autism Awareness month. Thanks to the support of invested community partners, we’re able to bring adaptive programming (both in person and virtual) to youth with disabilities all over the DMV."
