Exploring the Beauty of Fall Through Sensory Play 

As the weather cools off and the leaves start to change colors, fall offers a perfect opportunity for children to explore nature with all their senses. For children with autism, spending time outdoors can be calming, grounding, and full of rich sensory learning experiences. From the crunchy leaves to the smell of pine and feel of cool breezes, nature provides endless ways to play, learn, and grow.

Why Nature-Based Play Matters

For many children with autism, nature provides a soothing contrast to the often-busy indoor world, helping them feel calm, focused, and connected.

Fall Sensory Play Ideas

1. Leaf Scooping and Sorting
   Grab a basket and head outside! Collect fallen leaves of different shapes, sizes, and colors. Then, sort them by color or texture. You can even crinkle them to hear the satisfying crunch.
   Skills supported: Fine motor skills, visual discrimination.
2. Nature Texture Walk
   Lay out natural materials (leaves, pinecones, bark, grass, pebbles) and let your child walk or step barefoot through the path. Describe how each texture feels. Your child may also explore with their hands instead of feet if preferred.
   Tip: If your child is sensitive to certain textures, start slow and let them watch or touch with a stick or leaf first.
3. Leaf Rubbing Art
   Place a leaf under a sheet of paper and rub over it with crayons or colored pencils. Watch as the leaf’s veins and shapes appear! This blends tactile exploration with creative expression.
4. Sensory Bin of Fall Treasures
   Create a fall-themed sensory bin using:
   • Dried leaves
   • Acorns
   • Small pumpkins
   • Pinecones
   • Scoops or tongs
   Add a cinnamon stick or a drop of pumpkin-spice essential oil for a gentle scent experience.
5. “Find That Sound” Nature Hunt
   Listen closely: can your child locate the sound of rustling leaves, chirping birds, or a gentle breeze? This encourages auditory attention and environmental awareness in a playful way.
6. Build a Leaf Pile
   Raking leaves isn’t just for cleanup—it’s for fun! Jumping into a leaf pile provides deep pressure sensory input, which many children with autism may find calming and regulating.

Tips for Successful Sensory Play Outdoors

• Follow your child’s lead: Let them explore at their own pace and choose what interests them.
• Watch for sensory overload: Bring noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, or a blanket if your child needs breaks.
• Keep it short and positive: Even 10–15 minutes outdoors can have calming effects.
• Bring familiar comforts: A favorite toy, snack, or comfort item can help transitions go smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Fall is full of color, texture, and wonder—making it the perfect time to slow down and connect with nature. With just a few simple activities, you can turn an ordinary walk outside into a sensory-rich adventure that supports regulation, creativity, and joy.

Whether you’re collecting leaves, listening to the wind, or crunching through a trail together, remember: every small moment in nature can be a meaningful opportunity for connection and growth.

Helping Your Child Thrive in Every Season

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we believe every child deserves opportunities to explore, play, and grow in ways that fit their unique needs. Our Lighthouse Fusion ABA Therapy combines ABA and speech therapy to help children build communication, social, and daily living skills—skills that support experiences just like these.

Contact us today to learn how we can help your child thrive, at home and beyond.