The importance of play

One thing that I see overly much is the over-programming of kids with autism which leads to the loss of natural opportunities. What I mean by “over-programming” is that their daily lives are over scheduled with ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, etc. This is by no means to indicate that therapy is not important, I personally think it is vital to the progress of children. However, it is also important for parents to play with their children and build those bonds and connections. During these times, children can form close relationships with family members and use their skills in a natural context.



Some parents may find this difficult because their children don’t necessarily enjoy “typical” kid activities. In this instance I urge parents, caregivers and teachers alike to get to know the children and meet them where they are and participate in the activities they do enjoy. With all of the therapy I find that many people have a hard time getting out of therapy mode or teaching mode…sometimes it is better just to be. If your child likes to listen to music and jump and spin, then listen to music and jump and spin with them. If your child likes to line up cars, then help them line up cars. If your child likes to fill cups with water and dump them in the sink, join them. Just because they don’t do things your other kids to doesn’t mean their likes are any less important. If nobody joins them in what they like to do, they will probably be less likely to EVER want to do anything that somebody else wants to do. By modeling this they will learn those great interaction skills. On the other hand, if people ignore them when they are doing things they like to do or everyone tries to get them to stop do those enjoyable things, they and we will miss out on valuable opportunities to connect and build relationships.