Get ready to discover the exciting world of autism games! These groundbreaking board and card games are like magic keys that unlock social skills and fun for kids on the spectrum. By giving children with ASD more chances to practice socializing while having a blast with friends and family, these incredible games are transforming playtime into a valuable learning experience that every neurodiverse child deserves.
Table of Contents
1. Minecraft
Minecraft is a sandbox game that allows kids to explore, build, and create their own worlds. It promotes creativity, problem-solving skills, and collaboration with others in multiplayer mode.
2. Prodigy Math Game
Prodigy Math Game turns math practice into an adventure, making it fun and engaging for kids. It’s great for improving math skills and fostering a love for learning through game-based challenges.
3. Toca Boca Apps
Toca Boca offers a range of apps that encourage imaginative play and creativity. These apps are designed to be open-ended, allowing kids to explore and create stories in a safe environment.
4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a relaxing game where kids can build and manage their own island. It encourages planning, social interaction, and creativity through various in-game activities.
5. Roblox
Roblox is a platform where kids can create and play games made by others. It promotes creativity, problem-solving, and social interaction, making it a versatile tool for learning and fun.
6. Lego Marvel Super Heroes
Lego Marvel Super Heroes combines the fun of Lego with exciting superhero adventures. It helps improve fine motor skills, problem-solving, and creativity through interactive gameplay.
7. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a racing game that kids can play alone or with friends. It enhances hand-eye coordination, strategic thinking, and social interaction in a fun, competitive setting.
8. Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster
This interactive game features beloved Sesame Street characters and promotes emotional regulation, empathy, and social skills through engaging storylines and activities.
9. Splatoon 2
Splatoon 2 is a team-based shooter game that encourages strategy and teamwork. It’s colorful and non-violent, making it suitable for younger kids while improving their coordination and cooperation skills.
10. Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey offers a mix of adventure and problem-solving as kids help Mario rescue Princess Peach. It fosters creativity, critical thinking, and motor skills through its engaging levels.
11. Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game that promotes planning, organization, and responsibility. Kids can manage their own farm, interact with townsfolk, and explore the game’s world.
12. Just Dance
Just Dance is a motion-based game that encourages physical activity and coordination. Kids can follow dance routines to popular songs, making exercise fun and engaging.
13. Monument Valley
Monument Valley is a visually stunning puzzle game that challenges spatial awareness and problem-solving skills. Its calming atmosphere and beautiful design make it a relaxing experience for kids.
14. Kerbal Space Program
Kerbal Space Program allows kids to build and launch their own spacecraft. It promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and an interest in science and engineering.
15. Portal 2
Portal 2 is a puzzle-platform game that encourages logical thinking and problem-solving. Kids must use a portal gun to navigate through various challenges, enhancing their spatial reasoning and creativity.
16. Plants vs. Zombies
Plants vs. Zombies is a strategy game where kids must defend their garden from zombies. It promotes strategic planning, quick thinking, and resource management.
17. The Sims 4
The Sims 4 allows kids to create and manage virtual people and households. It encourages creativity, planning, and social interaction through its open-ended gameplay.
18. Zoo Tycoon
Zoo Tycoon lets kids build and manage their own zoo. It teaches responsibility, planning, and organizational skills while fostering a love for animals.
19. Minecraft Education Edition
Minecraft Education Edition is tailored for classroom use, offering educational content and collaborative projects. It enhances creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
20. ABCmouse
ABCmouse is an educational platform with games and activities covering various subjects. It’s designed for younger kids, promoting early learning in a fun and interactive way.
21. Poptropica
Poptropica is an online adventure game that encourages problem-solving and exploration. Kids can travel to different islands, each with unique challenges and stories.
22. Epic! Books for Kids
Epic! is a digital library with thousands of books and educational videos. It promotes reading and learning through interactive content and personalized recommendations.
23. Code.org
Code.org offers coding games and tutorials designed for kids. It introduces basic programming concepts in a fun and engaging way, fostering an interest in computer science.
24. Little Alchemy
Little Alchemy is a puzzle game where kids combine elements to create new ones. It promotes creativity and logical thinking through its simple yet addictive gameplay.
25. PBS Kids Games
PBS Kids Games features a variety of educational games based on popular PBS Kids shows. It covers topics like math, reading, and science, making learning fun and engaging.
26. Endless Alphabet
Endless Alphabet is an app that helps kids learn their ABCs and build vocabulary. It uses interactive puzzles and animations to make learning fun and memorable.
27. Starfall
Starfall offers educational games and activities for early learners. It covers reading, math, and more, promoting foundational skills through interactive content.
28. DragonBox Algebra
DragonBox Algebra is an educational app that makes learning algebra fun. It uses game-based techniques to teach math concepts, making it easier for kids to understand.
29. Osmo Genius Starter Kit
Osmo Genius Starter Kit combines physical and digital play to teach various subjects. It includes games that promote problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.
30. BrainPOP
BrainPOP offers educational videos and games covering a wide range of topics. It makes learning engaging and interactive, promoting curiosity and knowledge retention.
31. Flow Free
Flow Free is a puzzle game where kids connect matching colors with pipes. It challenges their problem-solving skills and logical thinking in a fun, addictive way.
32. Monument Valley 2
Monument Valley 2 is the sequel to the popular puzzle game, offering new challenges and stunning visuals. It enhances spatial reasoning and creativity.
33. My PlayHome
My PlayHome is a virtual dollhouse app that encourages imaginative play. Kids can explore and interact with different rooms and characters, fostering creativity and storytelling.
34. Sago Mini World
Sago Mini World offers a variety of games that promote creativity and exploration. It’s designed for younger kids, providing a safe and engaging digital environment.
35. Adventure Academy
Adventure Academy is an educational MMO that covers various subjects through quests and activities. It promotes learning and social interaction in a virtual world.
36. Play-Doh Touch
Play-Doh Touch combines physical Play-Doh with digital play. Kids can create their own characters and bring them to life in the app, promoting creativity and imagination.
37. Busy Shapes
Busy Shapes is an educational app that helps kids develop their problem-solving skills. It uses interactive puzzles to teach shape recognition and spatial reasoning.
38. Duck Duck Moose Apps
Duck Duck Moose offers a variety of educational apps for young kids. These apps cover topics like math, reading, and music, promoting early learning through play.
39. Reading Eggs
Reading Eggs is an educational app that helps kids learn to read. It uses interactive lessons and games to teach phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension.
Why Games are Good for Autism
Games are a powerful tool for kids with autism as they provide structured environments where they can practice social skills and communication. According to the Autism Science Foundation, engaging in play helps children with autism improve their ability to interact with others and understand social cues.
Moreover, games that focus on problem-solving and critical thinking can help develop cognitive skills. Studies have shown that kids with autism who play educational games tend to show improvements in their academic performance and overall cognitive development.
How to Choose the Right Game
Choosing the right game for your child depends on their interests and developmental needs. Look for games that offer educational value, promote creativity, and are suitable for their age group.
It’s also important to consider the game’s level of difficulty. Make sure it matches your child’s abilities to keep them engaged without causing frustration. Games that provide a balance of challenge and reward are often the most beneficial.
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Finding the right games for kids with autism can significantly enhance their learning and development. By incorporating games that are both fun and educational, you can support your child’s growth in a way that feels natural and engaging. Explore the options listed here, and see which ones resonate most with your child.
Helpful Resources
FAQ’s About Autism Games
What are good games for kids with autism?
Good games for kids with autism include Minecraft, Prodigy Math Game, and Toca Boca Apps.
How do games help children with autism?
Games help children with autism by improving social skills, communication, and cognitive abilities through interactive play.
Where can I find educational games for kids with autism?
You can find educational games for kids with autism on platforms like PBS Kids, ABCmouse, and Code.org.
What should I look for in a game for a child with autism?
Look for games that are engaging, age-appropriate, and promote skills like problem-solving, creativity, and social interaction.
Can video games benefit kids with autism?
Yes, video games can benefit kids with autism by providing structured environments to practice skills and improve cognitive development.
This post was originally published on 08/03/2022. It was updated on 07/19/2024.
Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.
