Play Therapy
Play therapy is a therapeutic approach that is sometimes used for children with ASD as part of a wider intervention plan (in conjunction with Speech & Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy etc). Research findings regarding the efficacy of play therapy as an intervention for ASD are inconsistent. Many of the relevant studies have relied on small sample sizes and have used different methodologies, which likely contributes to the variability in research outcomes. However, a recent study1 suggests that play therapy can enhance the development of social-communication skills in children with ASD.
Play therapy can be used to help the child with autism explore their thoughts, emotions and behaviours in a safe and supportive environment. The type of play can be directive or non-directive, and the choice of materials and activities will depend on a number of factors. These include the child’s age, developmental history, cognitive and language abilities, and the difficulties and challenges the child is experiencing.
For example, the therapist may choose certain games or activities to help develop the child’s social skills and emotional regulation. This may involve allowing the child to practise different aspects of social interactions and engagement through play, such as waiting their turn, sharing, initiating and engaging in cooperative play.
References
- O’Keeffe, C. & McNally, S. A. (2023). Systematic review of play-based interventions targeting the social communication skills of children with autism spectrum disorder in educational contexts. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 10, 51-81. doi.org/10.1007/s40489-021-00286-3
