Many children on the autistic spectrum seem to be at a very early developmental stage in their play, which tends to be less spontaneous, exploratory and varied than that of other children. This handbook describes different play sequences which encourage the integration of social, emotional and cognitive development in autistic children. The easy-to-follow play strategies focus on the four key skills visualizing, imitation, mirroring and turn-taking. The book is illustrated throughout with photographs, and includes a questionnaire for observing and accessing play interventions. The authors combine an accessible developmental approach with practical tried-and-tested play strategies. The work is designed to enable parents to nurture their child's social and cognitive development, and should inform the practice of professionals working in close contact with children on the autistic spectrum.
