# Simple Summer Play Ideas for Autistic Children

> Looking for easy ways to support your autistic child this summer? These simple activities help build communication, flexibility, and connection through everyday play.

Source: https://www.coveaba.com/blog/simple-summer-play-ideas-for-autistic-children

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# Simple Summer Play Ideas for Autistic Children

Evan Schneiderman, BCBA
Jun 16, 2025 · 3 min read

![](/assets/img/post-summer-play.jpg)

Summer can be a great time to slow down and reconnect. For families with autistic children, it is also a chance to support growth through everyday play. You do not need a full schedule of structured activities. Just a few simple ideas, done with intention, can help build communication, flexibility, and shared moments of joy. Here are a few options to try at home, in the yard, or out at the park.

## Water Play Ideas

- Water Balloons: Try a simple target toss using water balloons and buckets or chalk circles on the ground. This builds coordination, encourages turn-taking, and usually gets a good laugh. You can say things like, "Now it is your turn" or "Which one should we aim for next?"

- Sensory Bins: Fill a bin with water, sponges, cups, and floating toys. Use words like "pour," "squeeze," or "sink" to model language while they explore. You do not need a script. Just talk about what is happening in the moment.

- Water Painting: Give your child a paintbrush and a cup of water, and let them "paint" the fence or sidewalk. It is quiet, creative, and an easy way to introduce shapes, lines, or even early writing skills if they are ready.

**Vibrant assortment of water balloons in preparation for play.**

## Outdoor Games

- Backyard Obstacle Course: Use cones, pillows, hula hoops, or anything you have around. Ask your child to help set it up, then go through it together. Climbing, jumping, and crawling all support motor skills. Letting them choose parts of the setup builds interest and involvement.

- Nature Hunt: Make a short list of things to find such as a green leaf, a smooth rock, or something that smells good. Walk around your block or local park and look for them together. You can count items out loud or describe them to build vocabulary.

- Group Play: Games like "Simon Says" or "Red Light, Green Light" are great for practicing waiting, listening, and following directions. Adjust the rules if needed so it stays fun and achievable for your child.

## Craft Ideas

- Nature Collage: Gather leaves, sticks, or flowers and glue them onto paper. Talk about textures and colors as you work. Try phrases like "This one feels bumpy" or "Look how soft this flower is."

**Colorful painted rocks nestled among plants, showcasing creative designs.**

- Painted Rocks: Use non-toxic paint and smooth stones. Let your child decorate them in any way they like. This encourages creativity and gives you a chance to talk about patterns, colors, or emotions.

- Recycled Art: Pull out paper towel tubes, egg cartons, or clean containers and see what your child wants to create. Ask open-ended questions like, "What are you building?" or "Can I add something too?"

## Keep Some Structure

Even though it is summer, having a bit of routine can make a big difference. A simple visual schedule or checklist of the day's activities can help your child know what is coming next and reduce stress. Build in breaks between activities and do not worry if the plan changes.

## Final Thoughts

Summer does not need to be packed with big plans. A little water play, a short nature walk, or five minutes with a paintbrush can all support your child's growth. What matters most is being present and tuned in to their world.

If you want help finding ways to bring ABA strategies into your daily routine this summer, we are here to support you.

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