Make-believe play with autistic children

Abstract

This work aims at understanding how make-believe play is expressed with autistic children. It was a case study and its methodological procedures involved educational interventions during play activities, observation and video recording, and support for micro genetic analysis to interpret make-believe play episodes. Subjects were 17 children aged 3-7, of whom six were autistic, one had Down syndrome, and ten had no disability. The children were seen at the university playroom by 13 student-teachers from the Physical Education School in their practicum, one hour a week, for nine months. The analyses indicate that autistic children are able to develop more elaborate imaginary play as long as they are provided with conditions to do so. Teachers’ mediating role is crucial in the process.