Play Therapist for Autism at Cadabam’s Child Development Center
Finding the right play therapist for autism can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At Cadabams CDC, we guide Bangalore parents through every step—assessment, tailored sessions and home support—so your child gains confidence, communication and joy in play. Below you’ll learn why play therapy matters, what our sessions look like, and how to book your first visit today.
Why Play Therapy Is Essential for Children with Autism
Role of Play in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Play is the natural language of childhood. For children on the autism spectrum, structured play:
- Builds bridges to communication
- Teaches social rules (turn-taking, sharing)
- Reveals sensory preferences and triggers A trained autism play therapist observes these moments to understand your child’s world and gently expand it.
Effect of Play on the Developing Brain
Neuroscience shows that play stimulates:
- Neuroplasticity: New neural pathways form when children engage in imaginative scenarios.
- Emotional regulation: Safe, playful settings lower cortisol, enhancing focus and learning.
- Motor planning: Movement games boost coordination and spatial awareness.
Our Play Therapist for Autism Services
Initial Assessment & Tailored Treatment Plan
Your journey starts with a 60-minute intake:
- Parent interview: goals, medical history, sensory likes/dislikes
- Play-based observation: therapist engages your child in free and guided play
- Written report: personalised goals and recommended frequency (usually weekly 45-minute sessions)
Evidence-Based Techniques We Use
Our licensed therapists integrate:
- Floortime: Following your child’s lead to expand circles of communication
- Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT): Motivating spontaneous language through choices and turn-taking
- Sensory integration play: Swings, tactile bins and trampolines to regulate arousal levels
Collaboration with Occupational Therapy
When sensory or motor challenges are prominent, your child’s play therapist and occupational therapist co-treat. Shared goals may include:
- Hand-strengthening crafts that double as turn-taking games
- Sensory diets practised first in OT and reinforced during play sessions
Benefits of Play Therapy for Children with Autism
Improving Social Skills and Communication
- Eye contact increases during shared imaginative play.
- First words often emerge while negotiating roles in “restaurant” or “doctor” games.
Enhancing Self-Regulation & Coping Skills
- Deep-pressure play with pillows teaches calming strategies.
- Visual schedules within play reduce transition tantrums.
Building Confidence Through Imaginative Play
Dress-up corners and puppet theatres let children try new personas safely, boosting self-esteem.
Cognitive, Motor & Sensory Growth
- Stacking blocks = early math concepts and fine-motor precision.
- Obstacle courses = bilateral coordination and vestibular input.
What to Expect During a Session
First Visit: Goals & Parent Input
Bring:
- Favourite toy or comfort object
- List of current challenges (sleep, feeding, peer interactions) Therapist reviews goals and sets three measurable targets (e.g., “uses 10 new words during play within 8 weeks”).
Typical 45-Minute Session Flow
- Welcome ritual (5 min): song or sensory bin greeting
- Child-led play (15 min): therapist follows interests, models language
- Structured game (15 min): turn-taking board game or role-play
- Calm-down & recap (10 min): bubbles, deep breathing, parent quick chat
Parent Involvement & Home Strategies
- Weekly take-home sheet: photos of activities, tips to practice
- Monthly parent coaching: 15-minute Q&A after session
- Video modelling: secure clips demonstrating target skills
Signs Your Child May Benefit from a Play Therapist
Look for:
- Limited pretend or joint play: Lines up cars but never drives them.
- Difficulty with turn-taking or sharing: Meltdowns when peers join.
- Sensory overload during playground activities: Covers ears on swings or avoids sand. Early intervention leads to better outcomes—reach out if any sound familiar.