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How Can Joint Attention During Play Be Developed in Children with Autism? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Joint attention, the ability to share focus on an object, activity, or event with another person, is one of the most important social skills that children develop. For children with autism, difficulties with joint attention can affect communication, learning, and social connection. The good news is that research from the NHS, NICE CG170, and leading therapy organisations shows that joint attention can be nurtured through everyday play and structured interaction. 

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What Is Joint Attention and Why It Matters 

Joint attention is the ability to focus on the same thing as someone else, signalled through eye contact, gestures, or shared enjoyment. 

It develops naturally in infancy and underpins social communication and learning. Children with autism may find it more difficult to coordinate attention or share interest for enjoyment rather than requests. This early challenge can affect language development, social play, and connection with others (Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust). 

How Communication and Play Are Linked to Joint Attention 

Early joint attention is a strong predictor of later language and learning success. 

According to the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, children who develop joint attention early show better speech, understanding, and social-emotional growth. Shared attention allows children to learn from others, build turn-taking skills, and participate in more imaginative, cooperative play. 

Evidence-Based Strategies for Building Joint Attention 

These clinically supported approaches are used across the NHS and therapy settings to help families develop shared focus and communication through play. 

1. Model, Imitate, and Expand 

Follow your child’s interests, join their play, and copy their actions. Use simple language, gestures, and eye contact to model shared attention. Research from Speech and Language UK and RCOT highlights that imitation and expansion during play encourage children to notice and respond to others’ actions. 

2. Parent-Mediated Play and Communication 

The NICE CG170 guideline recommends play-based, parent-led interaction adjusted to a child’s developmental level. Parents are encouraged to join in, share activities, and create opportunities for joint focus through games and routines. Techniques such as therapist modelling, video feedback, and playful turn-taking (rolling a ball, singing, or peek-a-boo) are proven to strengthen shared engagement. 

3. Structured Intervention Programmes 

Clinical research shows that several play-based interventions are especially effective for developing joint attention: 

  • PACT (Paediatric Autism Communication Therapy): A parent-led therapy supported by NICE and Manchester University research. PACT improves shared attention and communication, with benefits lasting into later childhood. 
  • JASPER (Joint Attention, Symbolic Play, Engagement and Regulation): Backed by randomised controlled trials (PubMed), this developmental approach builds joint attention through naturalistic play and parent–child collaboration. 
  • Hanen More Than Words®: This parent programme, offered through The Hanen Centre, provides practical strategies for following the child’s lead and building shared moments in daily routines. 

4. Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) 

Speech and language therapists use responsive play-based techniques such as bubbles, picture books, and ball games to create natural moments for shared attention. Families are coached to use praise, gestures, and pauses to encourage turn-taking (RCSLT Autism Guidance). 

5. Occupational Therapy (OT) 

Occupational therapists design sensory-friendly play environments that encourage focus and engagement. The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) recommends co-playing activities (for example, building blocks or art) to strengthen non-verbal communication and coordination. 

Practical Strategies for Parents at Home 

Small, consistent changes in daily routines can make a big difference to shared attention and connection. 

  • Embed shared focus into daily life: During meals or dressing, point to and name objects together. 
  • Play “people games”: Activities like peek-a-boo, rolling balls, or singing help build back-and-forth attention. 
  • Pause and wait: Give your child time to respond when sharing or pointing. 
  • Use gestures and visuals: Pointing, showing, or using picture books helps connect spoken words with visual cues. 
  • Celebrate attempts: Every look, gesture, or smile that shows awareness of another person’s focus is a success. 

These activities turn everyday moments into natural learning opportunities, reinforcing what therapies aim to achieve. 

What the Evidence Shows 

Long-term studies confirm that building joint attention leads to sustained improvements in communication and learning outcomes. 

  • PACT has demonstrated six-year benefits in language, social engagement, and reduced repetitive behaviours (ACAMH Journal). 
  • JASPER shows significant improvements in social play and spoken language compared to control groups (PubMed). 
  • Hanen More Than Words® helps parents embed communication strategies into everyday routines, increasing both shared enjoyment and understanding (Hanen Centre). 

Trusted UK Resources for Families 

Parents can access several free, evidence-based toolkits and resources: 

When to Seek Professional Support 

If joint attention remains limited or your child avoids social play, consider professional input.

Autism Detect offers private autism assessments for children and adults, along with tailored aftercare. Their clinicians work with families to develop play-based strategies that build communication and confidence in meaningful, everyday ways. 

Key Takeaway 

Joint attention is not just about eye contact or pointing; it is about connection. By following your child’s interests, using responsive play, and collaborating with therapists, parents can help children build the foundation for language, learning, and relationships. 

According to NHS and NICE guidance, joint attention can be developed through early, playful, and responsive interaction, turning small, shared moments into lasting communication growth. 

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. 

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