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"Can I Play Too?" A Qualitative Study of Outdoor Play and Participation Among Autistic Preschoolers.

Maeve CoughlanHelen Lynch
Published in: The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association (2024)
The findings suggest that autistic preschoolers' outdoor play styles and preferences require support from adult advocates. Although the importance of relationships and social play cannot be overlooked, infrastructural accommodations for parents and schools are required if we are to create supportive and inclusive outdoor play environments and opportunities for freedom of expression for autistic children. Plain-Language Summary: This study explored the distinctive outdoor play preferences, opportunities, and challenges for autistic preschoolers. The findings show that autistic preschoolers face physical and social barriers to outdoor play and that they need parents, schools, and communities to create supportive and inclusive play environments and opportunities for freedom of expression.
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