3 Essential components of an autism-friendly playroom

Looking to create an autism-friendly playroom for your child? Here are my tips to get started! An autism-friendly environment that is well thought out, will help your child interact and learn more easily.

1/ An organized space that will inspire interaction and creativity that is free of distractions is the first essential component of an autism-friendly playroom.

When selecting a space in your home to create your child’s autism playroom, make sure you choose a space that you can easily adapt based on your child’s needs. A small space is fine, in fact, in my 15 years of experience, I have found that most kids with autism tend to prefer working in smaller rooms that feel controlled and secure, as opposed to spaces that are very open and less reassuring. Clear out the space to start with a fresh, clean slate in preparation for step 2.

2/ A clear organizational system for toys and educational materials is the second essential component of an autism-friendly playroom.

Everything should have its own place in the playroom. It should be clear to your child where each toy goes so that they can participate in taking items out and putting them back at the end of each activity.

In my learning center, I use a clearly labeled bin system from Ikea which I highly recommend. Materials are organized by category or activity. All materials are in a bin and I’ve created a visual, laminated label for each bin. I go into detail about creating visual labels in my free 7 day email course about creating an autism playroom at home. You can sign up here.

3/ Appropriate furniture is the third essential component of an autism-friendly playroom.

Make sure you have a table and chairs that will allow you and your child to sit comfortably and work on activities together.

In my free progress nook 7 day email course, I go into detail about selecting furniture for your child’s autism playroom. Sign up for the course here.

(Some people love sitting on large bouncy balls and if this is you, this could also be a good option. However, if your child is easily distracted, it may be a bit early to put in place and bouncing ball system.)