Tips on Playtime - ABA Therapy

Tips on Playtime -ABA Therapy

The word “playtime” should conjure up images of fun and excitement, but for many parents of children on the Autism spectrum, playtime can be a struggle. Is it difficult to find toys and games that will hold your child’s attention for an extended length of time? Does it seem like your child doesn’t know how to play with certain toys? Do you feel the need to expand on your child’s play-based activities? If so, read on for our best playtime tips!

First, lean into your child’s favorite characters. Try branching out into different types of toys under the same theme. For example, if your child is a huge Paw Patrol fan, Amazon sells Paw Patrol action figures, puzzles, activity books, blocks, puppets, ride-on toys, crafts, and much more! If your little one is obsessed with the color green, stock up on green items. It may seem simple, but by using your child’s existing preferences to expand their play repertoire, they have a starting point for interacting with new materials.

Next, become an active participant in your child’s play. If you are working on periods of independent play, it is perfectly okay to observe playtime from across the room. However, if the goal is to work on play skills, the number one thing you can do is get down on the ground with your child and play! Position yourself across from your child rather than shoulder-to-shoulder. This encourages your child to look up at you and watch your actions as well as increases their interaction. If your child is not initially receptive to playing with you or anyone else, that’s okay—help them work on accepting a play partner for a short time frame and work up from there.

Finally, harness the power of language during playtime. Maximize engagement with your child by narrating what they are doing and what they are playing with. Encourage your child to communicate with you as well, whether verbally, with pictures, or with gestures. Language can make playtime more enjoyable for everyone. Follow your child’s lead, and show them how much fun playtime can be!

As always, be patient with your child—and yourself—as developing any new skills, even play skills, takes practice and time. Your child can do this. And so can you! 

Positive Reinforcement offers ABA therapy in Bluemont, Middleburg, Upperville, Aldie, Chantilly, Manassas, Woodbridge, Winchester, Front Royal, Middletown,Round Hill, Leesburg, Ashburn, Charles Town, Ferguson, Science Hill, Pulaski and More! We now offer ABA Therapy in Richmond Virginia.