Activities for Low Functioning People With Autism

Low-functioning people with autism often engage in self-stimulating behaviors such as rocking back and forth in their seats, flicking fingers in front of their eyes or putting objects in their mouths. Sensory activities provide the stimulation that their nervous systems seem to be seeking. At the same time, fine-motor motor activities that are fun and motivational provide alternatives to maladaptive behaviors.

Vestibular Movement Activities

Movement and exercise not only keep our hearts healthy and muscles toned, but they stimulate the vestibular sensory system. The vestibular sense organs are located inside the inner ear and they enable us to respond to the pull of gravity and balance to catch ourselves when thrown off center. We receive strong vestibular stimulation when spinning on merry-go-rounds, jumping on trampolines, swinging and sledding down hills. Individuals with low-functioning autism who grew up in institutional settings may not have received adequate amounts of this stimulation while growing up. They may also have a brain disorder that makes it difficult to organize sensory information. A daily “sensory diet” designed by an occupational therapist might help these individuals receive the movement stimulation they need 1.

Heavy Pressure Touch Activities

Activities for Adults With Developmental Disabilities

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Another important sensory experience low-functioning autistic people might seek out is called “deep pressure tactile." These individuals often find light touch, such as a tap on the shoulder, threatening and crave the deep pressure touch experienced during a wrestling match, pillow fight or bear hug. Provide deep pressure by sandwiching the person between two large cushions and pressing down, such as in the game “hot dog” in which children pretend to be the dog between two rolls as the parent pushes down. Deep pressure can also be provided by rolling a large ball up and down the person’s body. An occupational therapist may recommend wearing a weighted vest or collar for short periods of time during the day as the sensory input helps the person to relax 1.

Fine-motor Activities

Adding a sensory component to fine-motor activities often motivates the person with autism to develop functional hand use. They may enjoy holding or manipulating objects that vibrate. The motor from an electric toothbrush can be placed inside a can that is used for placement tasks such as inserting a card through a slit in the can lid. Music switches that are activated when pressed can be placed inside a box. When enough bean bags are inserted, the switch will be activated and music plays. Activities that provide sensory stimulation and promote meaningful hand activities might decrease maladaptive behaviors that are harmful and interfere with learning.