Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has a broad range of characteristics, expressed differently depending on the individual. Some children with ASD may have a fixation on specific objects, others may find eye contact challenging, whilst some have particular synaesthetic sensitivities. Some children with ASD may struggle to form emotional connections outside of their family, whilst others will have difficulty expressing their emotions.
Traits of Autism Spectrum Disorder are highly individual because each person experiences the spectrum of autism differently. Therefore, it’s essential that we make the effort to engage with each child as an individual. Who are they? What are their likes and dislikes? Which subjects capture their attention best? And most importantly, how can we connect with them, and offer them a way of connecting with us?
How does literature support children with autism?
Books are one of the most powerful tools for establishing a meaningful connection with children. It’s no different for children on the autism spectrum. Reading aloud to a child fosters eye contact, physical closeness (like reading with the child on your lap), language acquisition, and the development of skills like comprehension, speech, imagination, and textual interpretation. Of course, this process will always depend on each child, their specificities, and how close you are to them.
Which books should I read to a child with autism?
We shouldn’t see a child’s ASD as something that restricts what they can and cannot read. However, if you are struggling to find the right read for you and your child, you might find it helpful to choose books based on their interests. These books are more likely to be immediately engaging to them and capture their attention for longer. Alternatively, you can use books as a way to introduce your child to new topics, experimenting with stories as a way to engage them with subjects they might otherwise overlook.
More than just reading books, it's essential to read your child! How do they respond to being read to? How do they react to different parts of the story? When do they enjoy reading the most and, with that in mind, how can you integrate reading into their daily routine?
If a particular book doesn't resonate, why not try to understand what your child didn't like and suggest a different book for next time? Inviting your child to pick out their own book can also be a compelling invitation, depending on their interest in doing so. Plus, understanding what didn't work is another way to get to know your child better.
Of course, there are also books that feature characters with autism. These can hold significant value, as they depict children in situations and scenarios that your child could more easily identify with. Not only are these stories wonderful educational tools, but they’re also useful conversation starters for children (with or without autism).
Specific themes can also be explored through literature, such as emotions, school life, friendships, family, and much more. Literature is a way to connect with oneself, but it can also serve as a starting point for delicate and necessary conversations that might otherwise be difficult to broach with your child.
Let us know if you have a child with autism and what you read to them! We would love to know what they enjoy reading and listening to!
Arts and crafts: allies in supporting autistic children
In addition to the rich world of literature, sensory arts and crafts offer a unique and tangible avenue for children with autism to express themselves, learn, and engage with the world around them. By involving different senses — such as touch and sight — arts and crafts can stimulate sensory integration and motor skills development.
For those struggling with unfamiliar textures, smells, and sounds, engaging in arts and crafts can still be beneficial. This is because these activities provide a peaceful, enjoyable, and secure space for them to interact with various materials. However, please be mindful: it is essential to observe and respect your child if they don’t feel comfortable with a particular texture or smell. The goal is not to force them to do something they don’t want to. On the contrary, it is to encourage them to explore endless possibilities through art.
Furthermore, creating art allows for non-verbal communication. Art offers a visual means through which a child with autism can convey their feelings, experiences, and perceptions. Sensory art projects that involve repetition and pattern can be especially soothing and satisfying, reinforcing a sense of order and predictability that many children with autism find comforting.
With this in mind, arts and crafts can be tailored to each child’s interests and abilities, making it a particularly versatile tool for parents and educators to use. Whether it’s painting, drawing, sculpting, or assembling, each project can be an opportunity to explore new textures, colours, and techniques. The end result provides a sense of accomplishment that all children can relish.
Craft ideas for autistic children
So, how can you blend arts and crafts with literature to make an extra special experience for your child, with the combined benefits of both? Well, I’d recommend crafting a personalised storybook with drawings and a simple narrative! This way you can merge the benefits of reading with the creative expression of art. Plus, it makes reading together even more exciting for the child, as it centres around their imagination and/or experience!
Why not create arts and crafts around your child’s best loved book! Experiment by painting their favourite setting in the book, or making a lolly-stick figure of their favourite character! These activities encourage little ones to engage with the world of literature in a tactile way, enhancing their experience and love of reading!
Arts and crafts packs for kids
Literature and arts and crafts can be wonderfully enriching to the lives of children with autism. These subjects offer diverse paths to self-expression, learning, and connection. So, embrace the paint, glue, and glitter — every creation is a step towards understanding and growth.
If you’re keen to start crafting with your child, then why not try our craft boxes or craft subscription? Every craft pack includes all the materials you and your child need to make a wonderful craft or artwork — plus simple, beautifully illustrated instructions and a magazine to read together. Scroll on to find out more!
Have you tried integrating arts and crafts into your time with a child with autism? What activities have sparked joy and engagement? Share your stories and discoveries with us!
💡 Special offer! Keen to start crafting with your child? Visit our shop for a treasure trove of sensory art supplies! And if you're looking for a regular dose of crafty goodness, why not join our subscription craft club? New subscribers can claim an exciting discount!
Written By
Sarah Helena
Mother of Cecília and Olívia, psychologist, writer, and philosophy specialist, with a Masters in Professional and Technological Education.
