Autistic Play Patterns

This Developmental Insight explores Autistic Play Patterns and is designed to support you in expanding, diversifying, and decolonising understandings of child development and self-directed play. Much of what is currently known about play has been shaped by research centred on neurotypical and non-disabled experiences, which then becomes the standard for what is accepted as “normal” play. This can create narratives about there being a right, functional, purposeful, or appropriate way to play. When this happens, some forms of play become marginalised or seen as needing to be corrected. Play should never be used as a measure of a child’s worth or ability, or as evidence that they are failing because their play does not align with adult expectations. Play is infinite, meaningful, and serves many different functions, all of which are explored in this guidance.