Building Social Skills and Confidence Through Play
- bex228
- Apr 22
- 2 min read
Autism Awareness Month Blog Series – Part 3
Discover fun and low-pressure ways to connect with children on the spectrum through play — building trust, communication, and self-esteem.
At Brighter Futures, we believe that play is one of the most powerful tools foster parents can use to support children on the autism spectrum.
For children with autism, social interactions can sometimes feel overwhelming, confusing, or exhausting. That’s why playful moments — free from pressure or expectation — offer such a safe and natural way to build trust, encourage communication, and grow self-confidence.
In this third blog in our Autism Awareness Month series, we’re exploring how play can open up pathways to connection and help foster children develop essential social and emotional skills in their own time and their own way.
Why Play Matters
Play is more than just fun — it’s how children learn, express themselves, and make sense of the world around them. For children with autism, play can help:
Strengthen relationships with caregivers
Practice turn-taking, sharing, and cooperation
Build emotional resilience and confidence
Encourage creative thinking and flexibility
Improve communication and body language understanding.
Low-Pressure Play Ideas That Work
Every child is different — and so is their way of playing. The most important thing is to follow their lead and create a relaxed, safe environment where they feel free to be themselves. Here are a few types of play that are often well-suited to children on the spectrum:
1. Sensory Play
Great for calming, focus, and exploration. Try:
Water play
Kinetic sand
Sensory bins with rice, pasta, or small toys
Playdough or slime
2. Structured Play
Predictable games can help reduce anxiety and encourage turn-taking.
Simple board games
Matching card games
Sorting or pattern-based puzzles
Building with LEGO or blocks
3. Parallel Play
Sitting and playing side-by-side (even without interacting) can help build comfort and connection over time.
4. Pretend Play with Props
Dolls, animal figures, toy kitchens, or vehicles can encourage storytelling and imaginative thinking. Let your child guide the play at their own pace.
5. Music and Movement
Singing, clapping games, or gentle dancing can encourage expression without needing lots of words.
Top Tips for Foster Parents
Start small. Even five minutes of shared play can go a long way.
Follow their interests. If a child loves dinosaurs, trains, or stacking cups — use that as your way in.
Celebrate effort, not perfection. Praise curiosity, not outcomes.
Use visual supports. Picture cards or visual schedules can help explain the steps of a game.
Be patient and present. Some children may take longer to engage. Your calm presence makes all the difference.
Remember: Play Builds Connection
Through play, children can feel seen, valued, and understood. It's not about teaching them how to play your way — it's about joining them in their world, at their own pace.
As a foster parent, your willingness to meet a child where they are — with kindness, curiosity, and playfulness — creates space for trust to grow.
Want more support and ideas?
Explore the rest of our Autism Awareness Month blog series:
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