How can unusual play patterns help diagnose Autism?

PostedDecember 12, 2025

UpdatedDecember 12, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Unusual play in autism diagnosis is often one of the earliest observable indicators that clinicians and parents watch for. Differences in how a child plays, such as repetitive actions, limited imaginative play or fixation on parts of objects, can flag developmental divergence. These play patterns aren’t definitive on their own, but they become important clinical indicators when combined with social and communication features.

Play is one of the foundations through which children learn social rules, language and symbolic thinking. When a child consistently plays in ways that deviate from typical developmental expectations, this may point to neurodevelopmental differences. In assessments, clinicians look for early signs such as lining up toys instead of using them, repeated spinning of parts, or lack of symbolic or imaginative play.

What role do play patterns play in diagnosis?

Here are some ways that unusual play in autism diagnosis supports early detection:

Standardised assessment tools

Diagnostic instruments like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) include sections to observe play behaviour. If a child rarely engages in make‑believe play or shows strong repetitive play, that contributes to the overall evaluation.

Developmental deviation context

Clinicians consider whether the child’s play is age‑appropriate. A toddler who continues very concrete play beyond the expected developmental window may be showing a red flag. This comparison underpins early signs recognition.

Supporting differential diagnosis

Distinguishing between other developmental delays or behavioural concerns often depends on looking at play in conjunction with communication and social behaviour. Unique play patterns help refine understanding.

While not every child with autism shows starkly different play, unusual play in autism diagnosis remains a valuable clue. When play divergence appears early and consistently across settings, it becomes a strong piece of the diagnostic puzzle.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for detailed play assessments and professional interpretation of early signs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Unusual Play Patterns.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.