Choosing People Games that Fit Your Child’s Sensory Preferences
One of Hanen’s most-read articles of the year — and for good reason
One of my favorite ways to connect with young kids is through “people games.” These are simple, no-toy games like peek-a-boo, chase, or fingerplay songs—familiar and fun routines that kids love. But what really makes them powerful, especially for autistic children, is when they’re tailored to each child’s unique sensory preferences.
Hanen’s article “Choosing People Games that Include Your Child’s Sensory Preferences” was one of their most-read last year, and it’s no surprise why. It’s packed with helpful examples and ideas for how to make play more meaningful by tuning in to what your child enjoys most.
Why these games work so well
Some kids love movement. Others crave deep pressure, visual input, or rhythm. When we build on what already feels good to them, we’re making connection easier and communication more natural.
People games are:
Predictable – same steps each time, which helps reduce uncertainty
Interactive – full of natural turn-taking and shared attention
Sensory-friendly – easy to adapt based on your child’s likes and needs
Here are a few examples from the article:
| If your child loves… | Try this game… |
|---|---|
| Running and movement | Chase or playful jumping games |
| Rocking or swinging | “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” or blanket swings |
| Watching hand motions | “This Little Piggy” or fingerplay songs |
| Music or sound | Singing together or freeze dance |
| Deep pressure or cuddles | Blanket rolls or gentle squeeze games |
Want support putting this into practice?
I’m a certified More Than Words provider and love helping families use people games to support connection and language in ways that feel natural and fun. I also bring in strategies from Jessie Ginsburg’s Sensory Integration & Regulation course and Learn Play Thrive, a neurodiversity-affirming program created by occupational therapist Meg Proctor, MS, OTR/L.
If you’d like 1:1 support, feel free to reach out. We can figure out what your child loves and use those strengths to build communication through play and everyday routines.
Let’s connect and play.
