From Engineer to Educator: Creative Learning Activities for Kids with Autism
- Jauné
- Oct 1, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 1
When I first dove into teaching my children with autism, I didn’t realize I’d need a toolkit filled with patience, meditation, and maybe a dash of dissociation for those moments when I just need to mentally check out! My engineering degree equipped me for equations, not epic educational adventures. Yet here I am, navigating the wild world of learning with a fresh perspective—sometimes energized, often baffled, and with hopelessness that thankfully dissipates like steam escaping my morning shower!
So, what are my secrets to surviving—emphasis on surviving, each day? I turn learning into a lively escapade, even if that means occasionally hitting the brakes and taking a detour. After all, our kids have a lot of schooling ahead of them—no need to burn ourselves out like a bad toast!
Being goal-oriented from my career, I like to know exactly what I'm aiming for. That's why I chose the K12 program, which is about as intense as a math exam on roller skates. But I’ve learned to throttle my ambition; keeping my kids engaged, enthusiastic, and cooperative is crucial. Zooming through lessons just to stick to a schedule risks losing their interest and turning our journey into an uphill slog.
Instead, I focus on understanding over speed. We take breaks, dive into their favorite subjects (like science, arts and crafts, and P.E.), and use creative teaching methods to keep things lively.
Here are some of our favorite break-time activities:
Color Mixing with Food Coloring: It’s messy, it’s vibrant, and totally worth the clean-up—like a mini art explosion!
Writing in Flour: A sensory delight that’s fun and (mostly) tidy. Who knew writing could be so deliciously messy?
Neighborhood Walks: Exploring the great outdoors while learning about our surroundings—nature’s classroom!
Photography Adventures: We capture artistic moments with both digital and Polaroid cameras. Instant memories!
Play-Doh Games: Squishing, shaping, and building strength while we practice language skills. Who doesn’t love Play-Doh?
Color by Number with Gel Crayons: Smooth, relaxing coloring for a serene break—basically a mini spa day for their creativity.
Outdoor Bubble Play: I’ve got a bubble machine that pumps out a million bubbles per minute—pure magic! Just don’t let the dog in on the fun…
Artso Picasso: Okay, it’s not a real thing, but I set up a portable easel and canvases outside. I use this time to prep for the next lesson or sip coffee while admiring her artistic flair. Sometimes I even sketch a little something for her to paint if she needs a spark of inspiration.
Snacks for Treats: Not a fan of bribery, but maybe I just didn’t have the right treat! Now that she’s discovered the power of candy (cue the bad mommy alert), I use allergy-safe jelly beans as a reward. For every few problems solved or reading passage tackled, she earns one. Sweet success!
Sound Effects & Tickles: Channeling my inner goofball with silly sound effects, countdowns, and an explosion of tickles is a surefire motivator. I shower them with kisses and cheers like “YES! LET’S GO!” and “You’re so freaking smart!” They giggle at my antics, but I think they feel the pride of their success.
Drawing Kit with Step-by-Step Instructions: Making art fun and accessible for everyone—no hidden Picasso skills required!
To manage the mess, I lay down shower curtains—my secret weapon for easy clean-up.
While I aim to make learning enjoyable, I also remind myself not to overwhelm with extra work. We’re doing great! By pacing ourselves and adjusting our view of challenges, we can keep thriving on this wild teaching adventure. After all, if we’re having fun, who’s to say we’re not doing it right?
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