Water Activities
By: Erica Nolan, M.S., BCBA, LBA
Summer is a wonderful time for families to slow down, create memories, and explore activities that encourage learning, connection, and fun. For individuals with autism, summer activities can be especially meaningful when they provide structure, sensory-friendly opportunities, and chances to build confidence in a comfortable environment.
Every child and individual with autism is unique, so finding activities that match their interests, sensory preferences, and comfort levels is important. Whether your family enjoys outdoor adventures, creative projects, or calm indoor activities, there are countless ways to make summer enjoyable while supporting social, communication, and developmental growth.
Here is a fun that can easily be promoted with home-based ABA therapy:
WATER PLAY:
Water activities are often a favorite during the summer months because they can provide calming sensory input and endless entertainment.
Some simple ideas include:
- Sprinklers
- Water balloons
- Kiddie pools
- Splash pads
- Water tables
- Bubble machines
- Sponge toss games
You can also create themed activities such as:
- Ocean day
- Pirate treasure hunts
- Car wash stations for toy cars or bikes
These above activities also provide excellent opportunities to promote communication or motor skills with your loved one! Here are a few examples:
- Blow up one water balloon, pop it, then promote your loved one to communicate blowing up another
- Demonstrate safely throwing water balloons
- Labeling toys that have been placed in the water table and imitating play
- Only filling the bubble machine halfway so that you loved one can communicate wanting more bubbles
For children who may be sensitive to loud noises or unexpected splashes, allowing them to observe first and gradually participate can help make the experience more enjoyable.
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