Place at the bottom of a bin toys that relate to an activity you are trying to teach the child. For example, use cups, plates, utensils and napkins. Put foam packing peanuts on top, so the child has to feel for the objects at the bottom to remove them. When the child pulls out the items, have him use them as he would in daily life. You may want to have another set of the items for you to use for helpful demonstrations with the child.
Assign bins a primary color and label them. You may include the color and the spelling of the color on the container. Place napkins in primary colors in front of the child, and put the containers on the matching color napkin. Remember to repeat the names of the colors as you match them so the child can associate the color with the word. Now, remove the containers from the napkins and place them where the child can reach. Have the child match the containers to the correct napkin. You may want to introduce one or two colors at a time. When the child has memorized the colors, you can let them color with them. Continue asking them what the colors are as he color or ask them to use specific colors on a coloring sheet.
Many children with autism respond better to visual cues. Label containers with pictures of items such as toy cars, a toy phone or toothbrush. Try to use everyday items that the child could recognize. Place the containers in such a way that the child can see the pictures. Place the items that belong in the containers in front of the child in random order. Have them put the items in the correct labeled container. Do not overwhelm the child, though. You may want to introduce one item at a time and have her place it in the container before moving on to the next.
Fill clear, plastic containers with water, play molding clay or any new item you wish to introduce to a child. Some children respond well with not only hearing a word, but also through touch. If you want to teach your child a new routine, introduce him to the sensations involved with the routine. For example, if you would like to introduce a new food to the child, consider placing the new food in a container and allow him to feel it. Introducing different textures slowly allows the child to become accustomed to the new food.