10 Benefits of Puzzles for Autistic Children

By sandra.caplesc…, 30 August, 2022
Child playing with puzzle.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects 1 in 68 children in the US. While no two children experience the same symptoms, autism is characterized by sensory processing disorders and a lack of social skills. Early detection is critical in managing symptoms and helping autistic children live fulfilling lives without much assistance.

Many types of therapies and tools help children with ASD manage their symptoms. One of them is puzzles. Children on the spectrum have an uncanny knack for puzzles—and puzzles make excellent learning tools.

Jigsaw puzzles are fun and challenging—and readily available. They fit all types of budgets. In addition, they teach problem-solving skills, enhance fine motor skills, and can be used to teach vocabulary. Many children with autism learn visually and think in pictures rather than words, so this is an effective teaching strategy.

In addition, children of all ages can enjoy doing puzzles—and the whole family can participate in the activity. It also develops the brain: figuring out where each piece belongs encourages creativity and focus while improving critical thinking and memory skills.

Plenty of puzzles are made from cardboard, plastic, wood, rubber, and foam. In this article, discover the benefits of puzzles for autistic children—and more.

Continue Reading: 10 Fun Sensory Activities for Children with Autism.

The Benefits of Puzzles

Promotes Problem Solving

Dealing with autism daily proves to be difficult because people have to deal with situations that are not structured or are stressful. When doing puzzles, there is only one solution to build the puzzle correctly. A clear problem needs to be solved based on the number of clues and hints discovered during the process.

Memory Improvement

When assembling a jigsaw puzzle, you use your memory. Besides, if your child doesn’t finish the puzzle the same day, you can pick it up where they left off.

Builds Attention Span

Age-appropriate puzzles build attention spans because they allow children with an autism spectrum disorder to focus on colors, sizes, and shapes. Furthermore, children improve their self-esteem by seeing the fruit of their hard labor.

Improves Social Skills

Children with special needs can greatly benefit from working together on a puzzle. Group work helps them listen and interact with others, assisting children in building vocabulary and language skills and reducing feelings of anxiety. Children also become more confident in their own social abilities.

Develops Cognitive Skills

Puzzles are great for children to develop reasoning skills because they encourage children to see the whole part of the picture. Depending on the subject, you can teach children with ASD about numbers, alphabet, color recognition, or other categories.

Improves Hand-Eye Coordination

Children place each piece in the puzzle, which means they manipulate it to see where it fits. Since they move the pieces around, hand-eye coordination is improved. In addition, children develop fine motor skills as they work carefully to piece the puzzle together.

Develops Sorting Skills

Children work on their sorting skills by being able to sort pieces by shape, edges, color, etc. It also promotes patience and gives the child a sense of accomplishment.

Encourages Independence

Completing a puzzle alone helps build confidence and independence skills. It also gives you time to do some chores.

Increases Persistence

Persistence is a valuable lesson for anyone. Even if your child is not used to doing jigsaw puzzles, even if your child gets frustrated, with some help, your little one can overcome anything. Be patient and encourage your child to keep trying.

Offers Endless Entertainment

Puzzles have no age—and they provide endless amusement and educational opportunities. The important thing is to have a good time and build valuable skills. These skills will prove helpful for children with autism.

Puzzle Suggestions for Children with Autism

Here are some toys you can use to entertain your autistic child:

  • Coogam Wooden Puzzle: Made of natural and healthy basswood, this puzzle has a simple design that sparks the imagination.
  • Melissa and Doug Wooden Cube Puzzle: This easy-to-play six-in-one puzzle has 16 cubes decorated with favorite farm animals. It promotes hand-eye coordination and helps children develop strong problem-solving skills.
  • Hexagon Puzzle: This puzzle offers endless possibilities for both kids and adults. They give the brain a little workout with their simple design and bright colors. It also provides a chance to practice fine motor skill, hand-eye coordination, and even spatial thinking.
  • LEGO Minifigure Puzzle: Everyone loves LEGO—so why not invest in a LEGO puzzle? This challenging 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle reveals a beloved collection of LEGO mini figures that your child will surely enjoy.
  • Unidragon Wooden Owl Puzzle: With this nature-themed puzzle, your child can enjoy a relaxing time. It features gorgeous colors and details you can hang on the wall when finished.