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World of Play: Introduction

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Play is important to all children, including those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Research has shown that children who learn to play with toys are more likely to play with others.

Do you want to help your child learn how to:

  • Play more with parents? Siblings? Other children?
  • Communicate?
  • Play with toys?
  • Show more imagination in his or her play?

Does your child:

  • Tend to play by him/herself?
  • Not play with toys the way other children do?
  • Play with one or two toys in the same way?
  • Show no interest in playing with toys or other children?

Play is defined as the "active engagement in pleasurable activities" (Quill, 2000). It is through play that children learn. They ask questions, solve problems and try new things. Often play lets us know the child’s thoughts and feelings.

Most children learn how to play from watching the world around them. However, children with ASD often need to be taught how to play with toys and other children. Through play, children can develop skills in all areas of development.

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