The Role of Play in Developing Communication Skills for Autistic Children

Children learn about the world through play, and for autistic children, play can be a powerful tool for developing communication skills. While social interaction and verbal expression may present challenges for some autistic children, engaging in structured and unstructured play can help them build the confidence and skills they need to connect with others.

Understanding Play and Autism

Autistic children often engage in play differently from their neurotypical peers. Some may prefer solitary play, while others may struggle with imaginative or cooperative play. However, play remains an essential avenue for learning social cues, understanding language, and improving non-verbal communication.

Different types of play such as sensory play, parallel play, and interactive games can be adapted to help autistic children express themselves in ways that feel comfortable and natural to them.

How Play Supports Communication Development

1. Encourages Non-Verbal Communication

Many autistic children rely on gestures, facial expressions, and body language to communicate. Play-based activities, such as role-playing with dolls, using picture cards, or engaging in simple turn-taking games, help children practice eye contact, facial expressions, and gestures in a non-pressured environment.

2. Builds Social Skills

Interactive play provides an opportunity for autistic children to practice fundamental social skills such as taking turns, sharing, and initiating interactions. Games like Simon Says or board games with structured rules can help children understand social norms and expectations.

3. Supports Language Development

Storytelling, singing, and pretend play can help autistic children expand their vocabulary and learn sentence structures. For children with limited verbal ability, communication tools like picture exchange systems (PECS) or speech-generating devices can be incorporated into play to facilitate expression.

4. Boosts Confidence in Interaction

Many autistic children experience anxiety in social situations. By engaging in play in a safe and supportive environment, they can practice communication without the fear of judgment. Activities like puppet shows, role-playing, or interactive storytelling allow children to experiment with different ways of expressing themselves.

5. Enhances Emotional Regulation

Understanding and expressing emotions can be challenging for autistic children. Play provides a structured way to explore emotions, whether through acting out scenarios, playing with emotion cards, or engaging in sensory activities that help with self-regulation.

Types of Play That Foster Communication

  • Sensory Play: Activities like playing with textured materials (sand, water, clay) can help children relax and become more receptive to communication.

  • Parallel Play: Engaging in the same activity alongside another child without direct interaction can gradually lead to social engagement.

  • Pretend Play: Acting out real-life scenarios (like playing "grocery store" or "doctor") helps children practice language in context.

  • Structured Games: Games with clear rules and turn-taking mechanics provide opportunities for interaction and practicing patience.

Tips for Encouraging Play-Based Communication

  1. Follow the Child’s Lead – Let the child choose the activity to keep engagement high.

  2. Use Visual Supports – Picture schedules, cue cards, or gestures can help guide play.

  3. Be Patient and Encouraging – Celebrate small steps and provide positive reinforcement.

  4. Incorporate Interests – Using a child’s favorite toys or themes makes play more enjoyable and meaningful.

  5. Engage in Joint Play – Instead of directing the play, join in and model communication naturally.


Play is a powerful and enjoyable way for autistic children to develop communication skills at their own pace. By using structured and unstructured play opportunities, parents, caregivers, and educators can create an environment where children feel safe to explore language, social interaction, and self-expression.

With the right support and encouragement, play can become a bridge to meaningful communication and stronger relationships for autistic children.  Social stories encourage and help a child understand communication, something we can build together in one on one coaching!

Together, we win!