Play Therapy for Autism – Why Is It Important?

Play Therapy for Autism – Why Is It Important?

Play therapy was originally a tool to provide psychotherapy to youth dealing with pain, anxiety, and mental disorders. In this context, play becomes a way for children to express their feelings and find ways to cope. This type of play therapy is still used, but it is not the same as play therapy for autistic children.

"Play therapy" for autistic children is provided by professionals who may use specific methods and techniques. For example, some offer a treatment similar to the Floortime method.

Floortime is a play method based on the needs of the child with autism (or attention) to develop relationships, communication, and social skills.

Note: Add a link to the floortime therapy blog ( delete this)

The Game Program is another therapeutic approach that uses games as a tool to develop the skills of autistic children.

 Why should an autistic child see a play therapist?

Autistic traits include differences in social skills and communication. Some autistic children have difficulty communicating with others in neurotic ways. For example, they do not "pretend" a doll to look like a real baby. In addition, autistic children can be very interested in objects, use them for self-stimulation, and become very self-centered. However, play is a wonderful tool to help children (and sometimes adults) move beyond autistic self-reliance to collaboration. and friends.

Play therapy can allow parents and caregivers to participate in the growth and development of their child. The principles of play therapy can be taught to parents and caregivers. Over time, they can use it as a bridge to build a stronger and more meaningful relationship with their sick child and family.

What does a play therapist do?

 A good play therapist works with an autistic child and actively participates in play. For example, the therapist can prepare toys for the child and let him decide what he likes. The coach can get another train and place it in front of the child's train, blocking the way. The relationship begins when the child responds, verbally or nonverbally. If the child does not respond, the therapist can look for more active, active options to engage the child. Bubble blowing is often successful, as are toys that move, squeak, vibrate, and otherwise "do something." Over time, the therapist will work with the child to build reciprocal skills (sharing, turn-taking) and imaginative skills, like pretending to feed a toy animal or cook a pretend meal.

 They may work on abstract thinking skills while playing. As a child becomes better able to relate to others, additional children may be brought into the group, and more complex social skills may be developed.

Parents and guardians can get involved by doing play therapy on their while using videotapes and books as a guide.

How to Find a Qualified Play Therapist?

Dr. Habib’s Foster CDC is a renowned child development center in Hyderabad. It has certified mental health professionals with training in play therapy. Parents and guardians can visit the centre to meet the best play therapist. Play therapy for autistic children is offered as an integrated service through a local early intervention program or integrated into a special therapy program.