How Communication Difficulties Influence Play in Children with Autism 

Play is a vital way for children to explore, learn, and connect. For children with autism, however, communication differences, both verbal and non-verbal, can shape how they engage in play and how easily they connect with others. 

According to NICE guidance and NHS advice, understanding these communication challenges helps families and professionals create more supportive, inclusive play experiences. 

How Communication Challenges Affect Play 

Communication differences can influence how children experience and participate in different forms of play, from imagination to social interaction. 

Symbolic and Imaginative Play 

Children with autism may find it difficult to use language or gestures to represent ideas or pretend scenarios, such as pretending a block is a car. Research from the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) in 2023 shows this can lead to more repetitive or sensory-based play, which, while valuable, may limit opportunities for social imagination and shared storytelling. 

Cooperative and Group Play 

Play that relies on turn-taking, sharing, and interpreting social cues can be more challenging for children who struggle with social communication. These difficulties may affect peer relationships or cause children to prefer solitary activities. As NICE CG170 notes, communication support during play can significantly improve inclusion and peer interaction. 

Joint Attention and Engagement 

Joint attention, when a child and another person share focus on the same activity, is an essential foundation for play and communication. Difficulties with maintaining or shifting attention can make shared play harder. Evidence from the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders highlights that joint attention can be strengthened through consistent modelling, gesture use, and responsive play routines. 

Sensory-Based Play 

Many autistic children are drawn to sensory play because it offers comfort, predictability, and self-regulation. While sensory play can be solitary, therapists recommend structured opportunities for shared sensory experiences to build social interaction in a supportive way. 

Strategies to Support Play and Social Interaction 

Parents and professionals can use specific evidence-based techniques to help children communicate and connect more effectively through play. 

Modelling and Video Feedback 

Therapists and parents can model play behaviours, demonstrate turn-taking, and use video feedback interventions such as the PACT (Play and Communication for Autistic Children) model. This approach helps children recognise cues and build confidence in social exchanges (NICE CG170). 

Visual Supports 

Tools like picture schedules, choice boards, and storyboards make expectations clearer and reduce anxiety during transitions. The Autism Education Trust (AET) recommends visual routines to help children express preferences and understand social roles in play. 

Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) 

Systems such as PECS, Makaton, and speech-generating devices allow children to express choices, take turns, and share enjoyment during play. The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) highlights that AAC not only supports communication but also strengthens emotional expression and engagement. 

Parent- and Peer-Led Play 

Structured play led by parents or peers helps autistic children practice social language and cooperation. NICE recommends involving trained peers in play to support inclusion and emotional development in school and community settings. 

Play-Based Therapy 

Occupational therapists (OTs) and speech and language therapists (SLTs) often use play as both assessment and intervention, focusing on sensory, communication, and social goals. These interventions may include pretend play, storytelling, or sensory-rich games tailored to each child’s strengths and needs (RCSLT, 2023). 

The Role of SLTs, OTs, and Parents 

Each professional and family member plays a key part in supporting communication and social play development. 

• Speech and Language Therapy (SLT): SLTs identify each child’s communication profile and teach strategies to enhance interaction through play, including using AAC and joint attention activities. 

• Occupational Therapy (OT): OTs support sensory regulation, fine motor skills, and engagement by adapting play materials and environments. 

• Parent-Led Play: Parents play a crucial role in reinforcing therapy at home. Programmes such as PACT and Autism Central’s peer-led workshops train parents to promote communication during everyday routines and play. 

UK-Based Resources for Families 

Parents can access a range of free, evidence-based UK resources for guidance on communication, play, and social development. 

• NHS Autism and Everyday Life – Practical tips for supporting communication, friendships, and play. 

• NICE Guideline CG170 – National recommendations for social communication and play-based interventions. 

• RCSLT Autism Guidance – Neurodiversity-informed clinical guidance for communication and play. 

• RCOT Play Practice Guideline – Practical strategies for therapists and families. 

• Autism Education Trust (AET) – Free toolkits and visual support resources for play and emotional regulation. 

• Autism Central – Free parent workshops and coaching focused on play and communication. 

• Ambitious About Autism Parent Toolkit – Guidance and checklists for social and play development. 

• WHO Autism Resources – Global best practices on communication and inclusion. 

Balancing Structure and Flexibility in Play 

The most effective play environments balance predictability with opportunities for creativity and self-expression. 

• Structured play: Games with clear rules and defined goals help children who thrive on consistency and visual guidance. 

• Flexible, interest-led play: Allowing your child to choose activities fosters creativity, independence, and motivation. 

• Facilitated peer play: Adult-supported or peer-mediated play encourages inclusion and social understanding in a safe environment. 

Both NICE and RCOT stress that structure should support spontaneity, not replace it, helping children find joy and comfort in play that fits their communication style. 

When to Seek Extra Support 

If your child continues to find communication or play difficult despite home-based strategies, professional guidance can help. 

Autism Detect provides private autism assessments for children and adults, along with personalised aftercare services. Their clinicians can help families develop play-based communication plans that nurture social connection, reduce frustration, and build confidence. 

Key Takeaway 

Communication differences can make play more complex for autistic children, but not less meaningful. With guidance from professionals and access to trusted UK resources, parents can use play as a bridge to understanding, confidence, and joy. 

According to NHS and NICE experts, supporting play is not about changing how a child communicates, but about creating space for every child to be heard, included, and understood.