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Toy Play in Autism. By Tracy Vail,MS,CCC/SLP. People Play. Determine Child’s sensory profile Provide input the child will likely find pleasurable Stay connected Watch for reaction Build anticipation Repeat as the child signals to continue Look for smiles, eye contact, social engagement.
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Toy Play in Autism By Tracy Vail,MS,CCC/SLP
People Play • Determine Child’s sensory profile • Provide input the child will likely find pleasurable • Stay connected • Watch for reaction • Build anticipation • Repeat as the child signals to continue • Look for smiles, eye contact, social engagement
Examples of “People Play” • Peek-a-boo • Ride on legs • Spin in circles • Jumping • Dancing • Tickle games • Chase (be careful!)
First Toys • Match to child’s sensory profile • “stimmy toys” • Be sure child doesn’t have access to “stimmy” toys when alone • Be sure child connects to both you and the toy • Watch to be sure the toy isn’t overwhelming the child • Help the child stay regulated
Examples of Stimmy Toys • Wheels • Tops • Ribbon sticks • Sticky toys- gak, creatures, putty • Spinning lights • Sound toys • Music toys
Cause-effect toys • Use to engage child in pretend play • Demonstrate “effect” to get engagement • Stay in control of “cause” to increase motivation to communicate • Say the “cause” as you manipulate the toy • Once engagement is made, pause and look at the child to get a signal to continue • Invite, don’t demand communication
Examples of Cause-Effect Toys • Horse barn that squirts water • Sink that quirts water and “cooks” • Pretend food that you can cut • Weebles toys that roll • Pop beads on board that turn
Beginning Role Play • Build a script or sequence of events • Engage in the sequence by yourself at first if necessary • Give the child a role as engagement increases • Set up a problem and give child choices of solutions • Encourage problem solving and flexibility in developing strategies • Avoid scripting
Examples of Role Play Toys • Dolls • Bob the Builder toy sets • Thomas the Train tracks/play sets • Disney character play sets • Pretend food/kitchen • Housekeeping toys
Board/Card Games • Teach turn taking • Keep short and simple at first, gradually increase flexibility • Teach appropriate “winner” and “loser” communication. • Give plenty of opportunities for choice making/requesting • Modify games as needed • Child should have a history of many “rule following” behaviors before teaching
Examples of Board/Card Games • Chutes and Ladders • Memory games • Favorite TV character games • Uno • Go Fish