Autistic children often play differently from their peers, and this is an important part of understanding their development. While some may enjoy repetitive play—such as lining up toys or spinning objects—others may prefer solitary play, engaging deeply with a favorite activity on their own.
Imaginative play, such as pretending to be a character or creating stories, may be less common or look unique. Instead, autistic children might focus on the sensory aspects of play, like textures, sounds, or movement. Social play can also be challenging, as some children may struggle with sharing, turn-taking, or group games.
It’s important to remember that all types of play are valid forms of learning. Play helps autistic children build communication, problem-solving, and social skills at their own pace.
At Move Up ABA, we use ABA strategies to encourage meaningful play, helping children expand their skills while respecting their unique ways of engaging with the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do autistic children play with others?
Yes, though they may prefer solo play or need support joining group activities.
2. Why do autistic children repeat play patterns?
Repetition can be soothing and help them learn through predictability.
3. Can ABA therapy support play skills?
Yes, ABA encourages social, imaginative, and cooperative play.
Sources:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6509020/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1750946722001106
