Peer Play and the Autism Spectrum: The Art of Guiding Children’s Socialization and Imagination

This practical guide offers an introduction to the basic principles, tools and techniques that comprise the Integrated Play Groups model, designed to support children of diverse ages and abilities on the autism spectrum (novice players) in mutual play exercises with typical peers and siblings (expert players). Small groups of children regularly play together under the guidance of an adult facilitator (play guide) through a carefully tailored system of support. The emphasis is on maximizing children’s developmental potential as well as intrinsic desire to play, socialize and from meaningful relationships with peers.