The importance of planning a family fun time may seem obvious. Very often, families today are so busy that family fun becomes a good intention that is overshadowed by outside activities, therapies, school, work, sports — the list goes on.

Having a child with a special need impacts the entire family. Parents are faced with many critical decisions. Children with special needs work hard — very hard — to accomplish the same things that come easily for other children. Their hard work often requires time and attention from Mom and Dad. Siblings can easily feel slighted when it comes to their parents' attention. Planning family fun times can pull the family back together and provide much needed relaxation.

Backyard Fun

You don't have to actually have a backyard to have backyard fun. The idea is to look for simple, everyday fun around your own home. Here are some ideas for backyard fun:

• Blow bubbles

• Draw with sidewalk chalk

• Ride bikes

• Play catch

• Plant a flower

• Read under a tree

Backyard fun usually doesn't cost anything, and it is a great filler for times your child is looking for something to do.

Movie Night

Life is busy. Too many things on the to-do list can be stressful for everyone. This is especially true for children who are overwhelmed with social situations, such as children on the autism spectrum. Family movie night offers laid-back family fun.

Just being together is an important element to building a strong family. Children with developmental delays often respond well to the animation and songs of old-fashioned family movies.

Pick a regular evening without outside activities and without the possibility of lots of homework to have family movie night. A weekend evening often fits the bill as your family celebrates the end of a busy week or chills before the new week begins.

Games Galore

Declare a certain night game night. Many games are great skill builders whether your child is working on counting, answering questions, or managing money! Of course, many are just plain fun.

The object of game night is increasing family time together and strengthening family bonds. Everyone looks forward to a shared activity. Everyone shares a common goal (win that game). Game night builds family bonds, but it also builds personal confidence and teamwork.

Make food a part of the game night fun. Game night can also be pizza night, or you can work with your child to make special snacks the night before.

Make a Treat

Basic cooking skills are important for life. Making a treat does not mean you have to bake something from scratch (although you can). Making a special treat with your child teaches the following skills:

• Reading — following directions

• Sequence — the order that the steps should be done

• Math — fractions, time, temperature

• Creativity — decorating, planning menus

Children with special needs take pride in their work. It is especially important when they can make something for someone they love.