Fun Indoor Skill Builders

Here are some fun indoor activities for rainy or snowy days.

By Vanessa Beibide-Zanetich, BCBA

Developing fun and engaging indoor activities that encourage movement, address sensory needs, and foster skill development can be challenging. With a little creativity, the possibilities are endless.

Sensory play activities for home

Many autistic children experience sensory needs. Integrating physical and sensory play into daily routines can help regulate sensory input, improve motor skills and functional and cognitive abilities, and encourage social engagement.

Structured indoor activities can provide countless benefits beyond playtime, serving as an opportunity for growth and development.

Bubble wrap play

Bubble wrap is an inexpensive and fun way to incorporate sensory play indoors.

Materials needed:

• Bubble wrap

• Painter’s tape

Attach some bubble wrap to a wall with tape and let your child push and pop the bubbles.

Extend the activity

Stick some bubble wrap to the floor with painter’s tape. Have your child stomp, jump, and march barefoot to pop the bubbles.

Be creative! Roll a toy car over the bubbles, tap them with a block, or add washable paint to squish and pop while exploring different textures.

Sensory bins

A sensory bin is an easy, fun, and engaging activity that can be created using everyday household items.

Materials needed:

• Plastic bin or container

• Fillers such as sand, rice, beans, dried pasta, or water beads