University of Sussex
Browse

File(s) not publicly available

Designing a playground for children with autistic spectrum disorders: Effects on playful peer interactions.

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-07, 18:57 authored by Nicola YuillNicola Yuill, Sara Strieth, Caroline Roake, Ruth Aspden, Brenda Todd
This study investigated possible changes in social play and initiations in 8 boys (5- to 7-years old) with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) who were moving from an old to a new school playground that was designed specifically to enhance playful peer interaction. Each boy was observed for half an hour over three occasions in the old, then the new setting. The playgrounds differed in design, spatial density and identity of potential play partners. As hypothesised, frequency of group play and overall social initiations increased significantly in the new setting. We discuss how playgrounds with appropriate levels of physical challenge and support for both structured, imaginative play and solitary observation may support peer interactions in children with ASD.

History

Publication status

  • Published

Journal

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

ISSN

0162-3257

Issue

6

Volume

37

Page range

1192-1196

Pages

5.0

Department affiliated with

  • Psychology Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2012-02-06

Usage metrics

    University of Sussex (Publications)

    Categories

    No categories selected

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC