The phrase “autistic play” might bring to mind images of a child repetitively lining up or sorting objects. Often, this style of play (and other common types of autistic play) are not well understood and may be perceived as “non-functional”: leading parents and clinicians to push children to change their natural play style.

We describe the need for all types of play to be understood and embraced, and additionally outline some of the unique benefits of more stereotypically autistic forms of play.

We enhance this understanding of autistic play by introducing the theory of monotropism (intense, single-minded focus) as well as common ways in which autistic children show care and connection (sometimes called the “neurodivergent love languages”.)

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