Meaningful activities such as word games help children see themselves as capable. For example, give the children a list of words to learn and have a spelling bee with a small prize as reward for the winner. Invite parents and provide refreshments afterwards to allow the opportunity for children to interact.
Since many low-functioning children prefer solitary activities, they should be encouraged to interact socially with other children. Events such as birthday parties, field trips, Christmas celebrations and picnics provide the types of social stimulation that children might find non-threatening. For another activity that can create social exposure, lay out an extra-long piece of paper, maybe 8 or 10 feet, on which children can hand or foot paint. Let them know it is okay for them to cross back and forth into each other’s space.
Some low functioning children communicate poorly because they are deficient in language skills. The Picture Exchange Communication System is an easy, non-threatening exercise in which children use picture symbols to represent items they want, such as fruit, pencil, crayon or books. They learn communication and vocabulary. Nurture their self-esteem by providing a safe environment in which they will not feel ridiculed or criticized.
Children usually enjoy activities such as dancing, kickball and gardening. Gardening, especially, gives students a sense of accomplishment when they see the evidence of their efforts through harvesting what they have planted. During dance exercises, students can dance to popular tunes and feel like a part of the group no matter how well they do it. You can even encourage them to do a silly dance. Kickball lets them expend positive energy outside in the fresh air.