As the weather warms and flowers bloom, spring is the perfect time to explore the outdoors and engage in activities that support sensory development.
For children with autism, sensory play is more than just fun—it’s a powerful tool that helps with regulation, motor skills, and social interaction.
Here are some of our favorite sensory-friendly spring activities to enjoy with your child this season:
🌸 1. Flower Petal Sorting
Head out on a nature walk and collect petals, leaves, or small flowers. Once home, sort them by color, size, or texture. This simple activity encourages visual discrimination and fine motor skills while connecting your child to nature.
Tip: Use a muffin tin or egg carton for sorting to add structure.
🌼 2. Mud Kitchen Play
Let your child get messy with a backyard mud kitchen! Mix soil with water and provide spoons, cups, and bowls for pretend cooking. This kind of tactile play helps children explore different textures and use their imagination.
Pro Tip: If mud is too overwhelming, start with kinetic sand or dampened soil in a sensory bin.
🌳 3. Scavenger Hunt with a Twist
Create a spring-themed sensory scavenger hunt. Include items like something soft (a feather), something rough (bark), something that smells sweet (flower), or something that makes a sound (crunchy leaves).
Why it works: This boosts sensory integration and builds observation skills in a fun, low-pressure way.
💧 4. Water Play in the Sun
Fill a water table or bin with warm water, sponges, scoops, and plastic flowers. Add food coloring for visual interest or essential oils for light scent stimulation (lavender or lemon are calming choices).
Water play promotes soothing sensory input, especially for children who enjoy repetitive motions.
🐞 5. Bug Discovery Bin
Create a sensory bin with rice, lentils, or shredded paper and hide plastic bugs inside. Add magnifying glasses or tongs to encourage exploration and fine motor development.
Pair this activity with a spring book or nature story for a full thematic experience!
🌷 Final Thoughts
Spring offers endless opportunities to help your child engage their senses in safe, joyful ways. At Community Autism Services, we encourage families to try new sensory activities and adapt them to their child’s comfort level. Remember: it’s not about perfection—it’s about connection.
Looking for more sensory strategies or support for your child this season?
Contact Community Autism Services, a division of The Stepping Stones Group, to learn how our therapists and support team can help you make the most of springtime fun.