In this episode, let’s talk about the different styles of play that can help children with autism to learn, improve and practice new skills and abilities for everyday life.

References:

Gena, A., Papadopoulou, E., Loukrezi, S., & Galanis, P. (2007). The play of children with autism: Theory, assessment and research on treatment. In L.B. Zhao (Ed.), Autism research advances (pp. 1-40). New York: Nova Science.

Grant, R., & Turner-Bumberry, T. (2021). AutPlay therapy social skills groups: A 10-session model. Abingdon, UK: Routledge.

Hampshire, P., & Hourcade, J. (2014). Teaching play skills to children with autism using visually structured tasks. Teaching Exceptional Children, 46(3), 26-31. doi: 10.1177/004005991404600303.

Jarrold, C. (2003). A Review of Research into Pretend Play in Autism. Sage Journals, 1(1), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1177/1362361303007004004

Jung, S., & Sainato, D.M. (2015). Teaching games to young children with autism spectrum disorder using special interests and video modelling. Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability, 40(2), 198. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/13668250.2015.1027674.

Kok, A.J., Kong, T.Y., & Bernard-Opitz, V. (2002). A comparison of the effects of structured play and facilitated play approaches on preschoolers with autism. Autism, 6(2), 181-196. doi: 10.1177/1362361302006002005.

Rogers, S. J., Cook, I., & Meryl, A. (2005). Imitation and Play in Autism. In F. R. Volkmar, R. Paul, A. Klin, & D. Cohen (Eds.), Handbook of autism and pervasive developmental disorders: Diagnosis, development, neurobiology, and behavior, 382–405. John Wiley & Sons Inc.

Stahmer, A.C., Ingersoll, B., & Carter, C. (2003). Behavioral approaches to promoting play. Autism, 7(4), 401-413. doi: 10.1177/1362361303007004006.

Links:

Interactive Play Ideas for Children with Autism Video

Playing with Toys Real Look Autism Video

Structured Play

Movement and Play

A Parent’s Guide – Teaching Playskills

Preschool Activities for Children with Autism

Learning to Play, Playing to Learn

For more information, head over to Aspect Australia - www.autismspectrum.org.au.

Disclaimer: I'm not a professional, just a student with a passion for autism.