Autistic children often engage in play differently than their neurotypical peers. While all children use play to explore and learn, those with autism may prefer repetitive, sensory, or solitary activities over social or imaginative games.
Common play behaviors in autistic children include:
- Lining up toys or organizing objects by color or size
- Spinning, stacking, or mouthing items
- Focusing on specific parts of a toy (like wheels or buttons)
- Engaging in parallel play playing near others without direct interaction
Some children may struggle with pretend play or taking turns, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t learning or enjoying themselves. With support, many autistic children can develop social play skills over time.
Understanding how your child plays can help you connect with them and support their development. Structured play, visual support, and ABA strategies can encourage engagement and communication through play.
At Able Stars ABA, we use play-based ABA therapy in Maryland and Colorado to help children build social, communication, and life skills.
Learn how we can support your child’s growth one joyful moment at a time. Contact us today!
SOURCE:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9850869
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/autism
https://www.healisautism.com/post/children-autism-play-different
https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/autism/helping-your-child-with-autism-thrive
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism/signs/children