Exploring Young Autistic Children's Family and Independent Digital Experiences at Home

Abstract

This study investigated how young autistic children engaged with digital technologies within the home context. Studying the everyday lives of three families in Queensland, Australia provided opportunities to identify the digital technologies they used and the purpose and potential of the children's digital interactions. Autistic children actively participated in this digital ethnographic study as they navigated their digital worlds. Children's experiences with digital activities were undertaken independently and with family members and informed how digital technologies support their socialisation, communication, and education. Furthermore, findings highlight the importance of parents and researchers adapting the ways that they engage with children to support children's success.