How to teach autistic kids to play

One of the hallmarks of autism is the inability to interact with others the way most people can. This impairment can be so mild that it presents as simple shyness, or so severe that a child does not interact at all. Play is an important part of a child's life; it is through play that kids learn the unwritten rules of society and how to build relationships. Some children with severe autism may never learn to play with others, but for many, this valuable skill is one that can be learned.

Things You'll Need

• Pictures of children playing
• Pictures of facial expressions or emotions
• Dolls, action figures or stuffed animals

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Instructions

• 1

  Be realistic about your child's abilities. Don't expect him to become Mr. Popularity overnight, or ever. While many kids with autism long to be part of a group, surrounded by playmates, just as many are introverted by nature and actually prefer time alone. Consider not only his personality, but also his ability to read body language and facial expressions, tolerate things like touch and loud noise, and communicate.

• 2

  At the same time, never underestimate your child. Guide her gently through the process of learning to play, and remember that autism is a complex disorder. Kids often make great strides in one area, and then their brains seem to shift focus and concentrate on another skill.

• 3

  Role play with your child. Take a few minutes to enact a scene in which he might interact with others: pretend you are at a park, for example. Play the role of a child who asks yours if he wants to play in the sandbox. Walk him through the appropriate response and how to play nicely.

• 4

  Model good play with your own friends. Even as adults, we engage in play. Make sure your child sees you having fun, as well as being polite and taking turns. Even things like letting your friend choose where to have coffee every other week shows your child how friendly interactions work.

• 5

  Use pictures to help your child recognize different facial expressions and emotions, as well as appropriate play behavior. Simply allow her to pick out the picture that shows a certain emotion or expression and talk about what might make her or a playmate feel that way. Talk about the different types of play in the pictures: "She took her friend's truck away from him. That wasn't very nice. She should have asked if she could have a turn." or "Look how nicely they're coloring together. They're having fun."

• 6

  Play with dolls, action figures or stuffed animals with your child, and act out appropriate play scenes.

• 7

  Children with autism often engage in "parallel play," which is playing alongside another child or children but not interacting. Recognize that this is a type of play, and your child is observing how the others around him are interacting. Over time, he may become more comfortable with other children and begin to actively play with them.

• 8

  The most important and enjoyable way to teach your child with autism to play is simple: play with her.