Plenty of children with autism like playing outdoors and spending time in nature, but if you have a child on the autism spectrum, you may worry that your backyard was not designed with accessibility in mind. But if you want to encourage your child to spend more time outside, you can take steps to ensure that your backyard is both functional and accessible!

The following resources from the California Advocacy Group are packed with all the information you need to create a safe backyard space for a child on the autism spectrum.

Safety, Repairs, Accessibility

From thick, soundproofing fences to smooth, wide footpaths, certain features will help your child stay safe while they play.

• Make sure your backyard is quiet and peaceful by taking steps to reduce traffic noise from nearby roads.

• Keep up with landscaping duties to make sure your child isn’t irritated by high grass, thorns, or sharp branches.

• If you have trees with dead limbs overhanging your yard, search online to find a local company to come trim your trees.

• Consider installing a privacy fence, which will give your child a protected space to play and explore.

Creating Play Areas

By designating a few play areas in your backyard with different purposes, you’ll ensure that your child can enjoy hours of entertainment!

• Your child can entertain themselves by playing with their toys in a backyard sandpit.

• With a small playhouse, your child will have a place to sit down and relax.

• You can easily build your own picnic table, where your child can have a snack after a busy afternoon of playing and exercising!

Ideas for Outdoor Fun

Time to head outdoors and enjoy everything your backyard has to offer! These resources will inspire you to try out educational activities with your child.

• You and your child can bond by trying mindfulness exercises together, like meditation.

• Camp out in your backyard on a warm summer evening and teach your child wilderness skills.

• If your child is interested in learning more about science, try a few of these impressive experiments.

As a parent, you’re always thinking about what’s best for your child. Most backyards are not constructed to meet the needs of children with autism, and in some outdoor spaces, you might feel nervous about your child’s safety and well-being. But by handling repairs and making additions to your yard, you can turn this space into a sanctuary for your child. And remember to tailor these suggestions to meet your child’s needs and limitations. That way, your backyard can be a sanctuary for your family regardless of any requirements.

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