Increasing joint attention, play and language through peer supported play

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Childhood Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Research
• Intervention Strategies for Autism

Background:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often involves challenges in social communication and play.
• Integrated play groups offer a naturalistic setting for social interaction.
• Early intervention is crucial for improving outcomes in children with autism.

Observation:

• A multiple baseline design assessed the impact of an integrated play group on two autistic twin boys.
• Typically developing children coached in play group techniques facilitated sessions.
• Intervention involved adult coaching followed by sessions without coaching.

Findings:

• Participation in the integrated play group led to substantial improvements in joint attention, symbolic play, and language.
• These positive behavioral changes were maintained after the withdrawal of adult support.
• The study demonstrates the effectiveness of peer-led, integrated play for autistic children.

Implications:

• Integrated play groups are a viable and effective intervention for enhancing social and communication skills in children with autism.
• Findings support the inclusion of children with autism in peer-mediated play settings.
• This approach highlights the potential for typically developing peers to facilitate development in autistic children.