Teaching Prepositions to Children with Autism Using Visual and Manipulative Activities
Introduction
Teaching prepositions can be challenging for children with autism due to their abstract nature. However, using visual and manipulative activities can make this process engaging, fun, and effective. By incorporating hands-on learning tools and visuals, you can help children grasp these concepts while building their language skills.
Activities to Teach Prepositions
1. "Where's the Teddy?"
Objective: Teach basic prepositions like "on," "under," and "next to."
Items Needed:
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A small teddy bear or stuffed toy.
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A sturdy chair, table, or box.
Activity:
Place the teddy in different positions (e.g., on the table, under the chair) and ask, “Where’s the teddy?” Guide the child to respond with the correct preposition.
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Melissa & Doug Greyson Bear Stuffed Animal (Amazon Link)
Description: A soft, cuddly teddy bear perfect for interactive learning and imaginative play.
2. "Preposition Picture Cards"
Objective: Use visuals to reinforce the meaning of prepositions.
Items Needed:
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Preposition flashcards showing examples like "above," "below," "in front of," etc.
Activity:
Show the child a flashcard and ask them to mimic the action using props. For example, if the card shows a cat "under" a table, they can place a toy cat under a table.
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Preposition Flash Cards | 7 Total Prepositions 49 Picture Cards for Speech Therapy (Amazon Link)
Description: Vibrant and durable flashcards featuring clear illustrations to teach prepositions effectively.
3. "Build It with Blocks"
Objective: Teach spatial prepositions like "between," "beside," and "above."
Items Needed:
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Building blocks or LEGO pieces.
Activity:
Give instructions like, “Place the blue block beside the red block,” or “Stack the yellow block above the green block.”
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LEGO Classic Creative Bricks Set (Amazon Link)
Description: A versatile LEGO set with colorful blocks ideal for hands-on learning and creativity.
4. "The Obstacle Course Game"
Objective: Teach prepositions through physical activity.
Items Needed:
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Cones, hula hoops, or cushions.
Activity:
Set up an obstacle course and give directions like, “Crawl under the table,” “Jump over the hoop,” or “Go around the cone.”
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Carnival Outdoor Games Combo Set for Kids, Soft Plastic Cones Bean Bags Ring Toss Game (Amazon Link)
Description: A comprehensive set of cones, hoops, and activity mats perfect for interactive learning.
5. "Interactive Apps and Tools"
Objective: Reinforce prepositions digitally.
Items Needed:
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A tablet or smartphone.
Activity:
Use apps designed for language development, such as "Speech Blubs" or "Lingokids," to practice prepositions with engaging visuals and interactive games.
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New Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro tablet, ages 6-12. Bright 8" HD screen (Amazon Link)
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Description: A kid-friendly tablet with parental controls, perfect for educational apps and activities.
Teaching prepositions to children with autism doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By incorporating visual aids, hands-on manipulatives, and interactive activities, you can help children develop their understanding of spatial concepts in a fun and engaging way. Try these activities, and watch their confidence grow!
