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Alone and in a group: ethnographic research on autistic children's play

The aim of this research was to study the social interaction and play of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ways an adult can support them. Eleven groups of Finnish children with ASD (N = 45) were observed in organized and free play situations and documented with video and written notes. The focus asks: How do autistic children play? Attention is paid to the potential communication and resources of children with ASD, and thus the purpose is to contribute to the discussion about the positive aspects of ASD. Even though ASD is seen as a qualitative impairment of social interaction and communication with repetitive behavior and restrictive interests, children with ASD are able to establish interaction and simple play with other children with ASD. It is essential to create and assess practical methods and curriculum to educate children with ASD in their social abilities.