ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the Parent Learn to Play program, which was developed to build a parents understanding of their child's play and how to interact with their child through play. A parent's relationship with their child is fundamental to their child's development and emotional-social well-being. Sunderland and Norrie McCain et al emphasise that the parent-child relationship shapes a young child's brain and influences their emotional life on a long-term basis. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often present with disorganised attachment styles and have difficulties with pretend play. While their parents are sensitive to their needs, these children often respond to their parents in ways that do not reciprocate their parents care. The Parent Learn to Play program is strongly influenced by child-centred play therapy as outlined by Axline, together with the cognitive developmental theories of play, particularly those of Lev Vygotsky.
