Shifts Attention to another Task or Activity

Description:

These activities aim to provide opportunities for children to shift their attention.

Section: Early Years (0-5yrs) info; Primary (5-11yrs) info; Secondary (11-16yrs) info

Additional information (Click to show) (Click to hide)

Communication area:	Early communication; Physical skills
Context:	School; Home and activities for living
Includes:	Activities
Suitable for:	Individual; Small group
Accompanying disability:	Autism
Contributors:	eloiset
Date last changed:	January 5, 2026

Activity/strategy name and materials required	How to do the activity	Key principles for doing the activity and comments
Attention Shifting Through Imitation – Familiar toys or materials the child enjoys.	1. Imitate your child’s current play. 2. Slowly introduce a small change in your own play (e.g. moving to a different toy). 3. Wait to see if your child notices and follows the shift.	Changes should be small and predictable. Allow extra processing time.
Sensory Bridge Activity – Two activities with shared sensory features (e.g. water play to bubbles, textured toys).	Login or register to see the instructions for this activity.	Linking sensory experiences supports smoother transitions. Observe sensory regulation carefully. Withdraw if the child becomes distressed.
Side-by-Side Activity Change - Two simple activities placed next to each other (e.g. puzzle and blocks).	Login or register to see the instructions for this activity.	Model interest rather than instructing. Avoid verbal demands. Accept partial attention or brief glances as successful shifts.

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