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Learning through play
Learning through play is a natural and effective way for young children to develop important life skills.
For autistic children, play isn’t just about having fun—it’s also an opportunity to practice and build skills to help them navigate the world. Whether it’s learning to communicate, developing motor skills, or understanding social interactions, play offers a relaxed and engaging way for autistic children to learn and grow.
The role of play in early childhood development
Play is often referred to as the “work” of childhood. It’s through play that children explore their environment, learn new concepts, and develop essential skills. For autistic children, play can be particularly beneficial, as it allows them to experiment with different behaviours, express their emotions and build cognitive and motor skills in a non-threatening way.
Understanding how autistic children play
Autistic children might approach play differently than other kids. They may engage in repetitive play, prefer playing alone, or become attached to certain toys or activities. These behaviours might seem unusual to some, but they play an important role in the child’s development. For example, repetitive play might help an autistic child process sensory information or create a sense of order in their world. Recognising and supporting these unique play styles is key to helping autistic kids develop the skills they need.
Different types of play and how they help
Structured play involves activities with specific goals or rules, such as puzzles, building blocks, or board games. These activities help autistic children develop problem-solving skills, follow instructions, and learn about taking turns. Structured play can also introduce new concepts in a controlled environment, which can be particularly helpful for autistic kids.
- Puzzles: These are great for improving fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. For autistic children, puzzles can also help them focus on a task and feel a sense of achievement when they complete it.
- Building blocks: Playing with blocks encourages creativity and spatial awareness. It also promotes social play if done with others, helping the child learn to share and collaborate.
Free play is unstructured and allows children to use their imagination without any set rules. For autistic children, free play offers a chance to explore their interests, express creativity, and make decisions independently.
- Role-playing games: These can help autistic children explore social roles and scenarios, improving their understanding of social cues and interactions. For instance, pretending to run a shop can teach basic maths skills, communication, and social interaction.
- Sensory play: Activities like playing with sand, water, or sensory bins filled with different textures can be especially beneficial. Sensory play helps autistic children process sensory information and develop their tactile senses.
Physical play involves activities that require movement, helping to develop gross motor skills and overall physical health. For autistic children, physical play can also be a great way to release energy and reduce stress.
- Swinging and sliding: Playground activities like swinging or sliding can help children improve their balance and coordination. These activities also provide sensory input that some autistic children find soothing.
- Obstacle courses: A simple obstacle course at home or in the garden can help develop motor skills and encourage problem-solving. It can also boost confidence as the child navigates the different challenges.
How parents and carers can support play
Parents and carers play a vital role in guiding and supporting play for autistic children. By observing the child’s interests and play patterns, they can introduce activities that not only engage the child but also support their development.
- Creating a supportive play environment: A supportive play environment is one where the child feels safe and comfortable to explore. This might involve adapting the play area to reduce sensory overload, such as dimming lights or using noise-cancelling headphones. It’s also helpful to provide a variety of toys and materials that match the child’s interests and developmental needs.
- Encouraging social play: Social play can be challenging for autistic children, but with the right support, it can be highly rewarding. Parents can encourage social play by arranging playdates with understanding peers or siblings, joining group activities, or participating in community events designed for autistic children. During social play, it’s important to be patient and provide gentle guidance. For instance, if a child struggles with taking turns, parents can model the behaviour and praise the child when they successfully share or wait for their turn.
- Using play to teach life skills: Playtime is a great opportunity to teach life skills in a fun and engaging way. For example, cooking together can teach basic maths (like measuring ingredients), following instructions, and social communication if the activity involves others. Similarly, dressing up dolls or action figures can help teach about clothing and dressing, preparing the child for dressing themselves.
Making play part of daily routines
Incorporating play into daily routines is one of the best ways to support the development of life skills. This approach makes learning more enjoyable and reinforces the skills by linking them to everyday tasks.
Morning routines
Starting the day with a playful activity can set a positive tone. For example, turning getting dressed into a game, where the child has to pick out their outfit from a set of options, can make the process more engaging and teach decision-making skills.
Meal time
Meal time can be an opportunity for sensory play and learning about healthy eating habits. Parents can involve the child in preparing simple meals, like making a sandwich or mixing a salad. This not only teaches about food and nutrition but also enhances fine motor skills.
Bath time
Bath time can double as sensory play, with water toys, bubbles, or even colouring bath water. These activities can help the child relax and provide sensory input that can be calming after a long day.
Bed time
A bed time routine that includes a calming play activity, like reading a story or listening to soft music, can help the child wind down and prepare for sleep. It also reinforces the concept of routine and can make the transition to bedtime smoother.
Adapting play to suit different abilities
Every child is unique, and play activities should be adapted to fit the individual needs and abilities of each child. Some autistic children might be more comfortable with solitary play, while others might enjoy more interactive activities.
Sensory sensitivities
For children with sensory sensitivities, it might be necessary to adapt play activities to ensure they are comfortable. This could mean choosing quieter toys, providing alternative textures, or creating a calm and soothing environment for play.
Communication needs
For non-verbal children or those with limited speech, incorporating visual aids, sign language, or communication devices into play can help them express themselves and participate more fully. Parents can use picture cards or apps that allow the child to choose what they want to play or how they feel.
Physical limitations
For children with physical limitations, adaptive toys and equipment can make playtime more accessible. For example, toys with larger handles or switches can be easier to use. It’s also important to choose activities that match the child’s physical abilities while still providing a challenge to help them develop.
The benefits of play for life skills development
Play offers many benefits that go beyond just having fun. For autistic children, these benefits can be particularly significant, helping them build a range of life skills in a way that is natural and enjoyable.
Social skills
Through play, children learn how to interact with others, share, take turns, and understand social cues. These skills are essential for building relationships and navigating social situations in everyday life.
Communication skills
Play provides an opportunity for children to practice both verbal and non-verbal communication. Whether they are role-playing, engaging in pretend play, or using toys that encourage dialogue, these activities help them express themselves and understand others.
Problem-solving skills
Many play activities require children to think critically and solve problems. Whether it’s figuring out how to fit puzzle pieces together or strategising in a game, these activities help children develop cognitive skills that are crucial for decision-making and overcoming challenges.
Motor skills
From fine motor skills like gripping a pencil to gross motor skills like running and jumping, play activities help children develop the physical abilities they need for daily tasks. These skills are important not just for play but also for independence in activities like dressing, eating, and personal care.
Emotional regulation
Play can allow children to explore and express their emotions in a safe environment. It also provides opportunities to practice emotional regulation, such as calming down after a high-energy activity or dealing with the frustration of losing a game.
Supporting play in different settings
While play at home is important, autistic children can also benefit from play in other settings, such as schools, playgrounds, and therapy sessions. Each setting offers unique opportunities for development and socialisation.
Early education environment
In an early education setting, play can be incorporated into the curriculum through activities like group games, arts and crafts, and interactive learning sessions. Educators and support staff can work together to ensure that play activities are inclusive and cater to the needs of all children.
Playgrounds
Playgrounds offer a chance for children to engage in physical play and interact with peers. For autistic children, this can be an opportunity to practice social skills in a less structured environment. It’s important for playgrounds to have a variety of equipment that caters to different abilities and sensory needs.
Therapy sessions
Therapists often use play as a tool in various therapies, such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, or behavioural therapy. In these sessions, play is used strategically to target specific skills and goals, making the learning process more engaging and less stressful for the child.
Balancing online and offline play
While many children enjoy using digital devices and online games to play, it’s important to balance screen time and offline activities. Apps, video games, and digital technologies can be educational and engaging for young children, but only when combined with physical and imaginative play that doesn’t involve digital devices.
Educational apps
There are many educational apps designed specifically for autistic children that can help with learning new skills, understanding emotions, and practising communication. These apps can be a valuable tool when used in moderation.
Interactive toys
Interactive toys that combine technology with physical play, such as programmable robots or electronic games, can offer a fun and educational experience. These toys often encourage problem-solving and creativity while keeping the child engaged.
Balancing screen time
It’s important to ensure that screen time doesn’t take over a child’s day. Encouraging regular breaks and offering alternative activities, like outdoor play or creative arts, can help maintain a healthy balance.
Learning through play is a wonderful way to help young autistic children develop important life skills. By creating a supportive and engaging play environment, parents and caregivers can help their child grow in areas like social interaction, communication, motor skills, and emotional regulation. Whether it’s through structured activities, free play, or simply incorporating play into daily routines, the benefits of play are vast and long-lasting. Understanding and embracing the unique ways that autistic children play and learn can make a big difference in helping them thrive.