ABSTRACT
Children with autism are at a distinct disadvantage for deriving the joy and benefits that play experiences afford. Autism refers here to a broad definition of autism spectrum disorder, a neuro-developmental condition that presents in early childhood and persists over the lifespan. Clinical features include discrepancies in social interaction and communication, and restrictive, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). The notion of a spectrum reflects the immense variation in how behaviors crystallize and the level of support needed for individuals to function to their full potential. Nevertheless, pervasive challenges in imaginary and social play are characteristics shared by children across the autism spectrum.
