ABSTRACT
Play is an integral part of development, in that it is often referred to as the "business of childhood". Through play, children stimulate their senses, exercise muscles, build social skills, and work through any emotional difficulties they are experiencing. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) struggle in areas of play that involve imaginary play or peer-group play, yet desire to have friendships and interact with peers; they simply lack the social ability and skills to interact successfully. Developmental, Individual Difference, Relationship-Based (DIR) Floortime® model is an interdisciplinary framework that enables play therapists, parents, and educators to construct a comprehensive assessment and intervention program based on the child's and family's unique developmental profile that addresses obstacles that children with autism or other developmental disorders face. One of the most important components of DIRFloortime® is family involvement. Play is a wonderful tool for helping children with autism to engage with others and move beyond autism's self-absorption into real, shared interaction.
