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Fun activities to help reduce agitation and irritability in autism spectrum children

Beth Kelleher's photo
Philadelphia Autism & Parenting Examiner
Child's Meditation Chart with an image of deep breathing and music playing
Child's meditation chart created by CCDC Coatesville.

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Children on the spectrum often suffer from a higher degree of agitation and irritability with a low threshold for frustration. One way to help to reduce the overall level of agitation that our spectrum kids have to deal with every day is to include activities that help to reduce stress levels and also provide children with the opportunity to succeed at tasks and social activities outside of a school, care or therapy setting.

Some ideas for extracurricular activities that help to reduce anxiety, stress and agitation  while providing the opportunity for social skills practice include:

* Kids' Yoga

* Kids' Meditation

* Martial Arts

* Nature Walks

* Sensory Play Activities such as water play, working with clay and other craft activities commonly available through craft and community rec centers.

 
Each child will respond to different activities differently, some spectrum kids love digging into clay for example, while others might get agitated by having to put hands into something cold and 'slimy'. Depending on what your child likes and finds soothing, a weekly or bi-weekly activity can go a long way towards reducing overall stress and agitation levels and provide the chance for some gentle social skills practice as well as possible new interests to share with friends and family. 
Have a favorite activity or place for fun activities that you'd like to recommend? Leave a comment below or contact beth.kelleher AT gmail DOT com if you'd like to shine the spotlight on your favorite place.
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, Philadelphia Autism & Parenting Examiner

Beth has been writing online since 1997 and has a son on the spectrum. She and her family make their home in Berwyn and have been managing life on the autism roller coaster since 2005.

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