101 Games and Activities for Children With Autism, Asperger's and Sensory Processing Disorders » (Original)

Tara Delaney M.S., OTR, is the Executive Director of Steps Therapy Inc., specializing in sensory integration, autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, as well as social skills development.

LEARNING THROUGH PLAY

One of the best ways for children with autism, Asperger's, and sensory processing disorders to learn is through play. Children improve their motor skills, language skills, and social skills by moving their bodies and interacting with their environment. Yet the biggest challenges parents, teachers, and loved ones face with children on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing disorders is how to successfully engage them in play.

Pediatric occupational therapist Tara Delaney provides the answer. In 101 Games and Activities for Children with Autism, Asperger's, and Sensory Processing Disorders, she shows you how to teach your children by moving their bodies through play. These interactive games are quick to learn but will provide hours of fun and learning for your child. And many of the games can be played indoors or outdoors, so your child can enjoy them at home, outside, or on field trips.

More than one hundred games that help your child:

• make eye-contact, stay focused, and strengthen his or her motor skills
• associate words with objects and improve language and numerical skills
• learn how to interact with others, how to take turns, and other social skills needed for attending preschool and school

Acknowledgments v

Introduction vii

1 The How of Engagement 1

2 Sensory Development 15

3 Gross Motor Skills 51

4 Fine Motor Skills 79

5 Communication 97

6 Social Sense 117

7 School Ready 137

8 Home Activities 157

9 Outdoor Activities 175

10 Adapting Brand-Name Games 191

Glossary Of Common Terms 209

Bibliography 217

Index 221