How Does Play with Siblings Differ for Children with Autism?

PostedDecember 15, 2025

UpdatedDecember 15, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Siblings’ play in autism can be both a source of comfort and a space for challenge. Unlike peers, siblings often share daily routines and emotional closeness, which can create more natural opportunities for interaction. But for children with autism, differences in communication, social timing or sensory needs can make even familiar sibling play more complex.

In many families, siblings are a child’s first playmates. This closeness brings both benefits and pressures. On one hand, a sibling may be more patient, flexible and open to adapting games. On the other, unstructured play can quickly break down if one child struggles to share, shift roles or stay engaged in the flow of joint activity.

Supporting Successful Sibling Play

Understanding the unique dynamics of Siblings’ play in autism helps families encourage more positive and rewarding moments together. Here are a few common differences and how they can be addressed:

Mismatch in play styles

The autistic child may prefer repetitive or solo play, while the sibling wants active or imaginative games. Structured joint play sessions with clear beginnings and endings can help bridge the gap.

Communication breakdowns

Misunderstandings or unmet expectations can lead to frustration. Using simple scripts, shared routines and plenty of visual cues can support clearer family interactions.

Feelings of imbalance or resentment

Siblings may sometimes feel overlooked or burdened. Giving each child one-on-one time and celebrating small, shared successes can foster mutual respect.

With intentional support, Siblings’ play in autism can become a space not just for learning but for deep connection and shared joy.

For personal consultation or targeted intervention strategies, visit providers like Autism Detect.

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.