- Understanding Neurodivergence The term neurodivergent refers to individuals whose brain functions differ from what is considered typical. This includes a range of conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, dyslexia, and others that influence how a person thinks, learns, communicates, and processes the world around them. Neurodivergence is not a deficit—it’s a different way of experiencing life, and recognizing these differences helps us create more inclusive and supportive environments.
For many children, play is instinctive—a joyful expression of curiosity and creativity. But for neurodivergent children, play can be more than just fun: it becomes a powerful tool for fostering social connection and communication.
🧠 Why Play Matters in Neurodivergence Children who are neurodivergent may experience differences in social engagement, speech development, and imaginative play. Structured play, tailored to their interests and sensory preferences, can help bridge these gaps by:
- Encouraging interaction and turn-taking
- Building vocabulary in low-pressure, meaningful contexts
- Supporting emotional regulation
- Strengthening joint attention—an essential foundation for communication
🧸 Types of Play That Support Growth Play doesn’t have to follow a traditional mold. What matters most is that the activity resonates with the child. Effective approaches include:
- Sensory Play: Activities like water play, kinetic sand, or slime can help neurodivergent children feel calm and more open to engagement.
- Parallel Play: Playing side by side without direct interaction builds comfort and may gradually evolve into shared play.
- Imitative Play: When caregivers mirror the child’s actions or sounds, it opens the door to reciprocal communication.
- Functional Toy Play: Using toys as intended (e.g., rolling cars, stacking blocks) teaches cause-and-effect and supports expressive language development.
🗣️ The Role of Caregivers and Therapists Adults play a vital role in guiding play to support communication. Instead of directing, they can follow the child’s lead—commenting on actions, modeling language, and gently expanding vocabulary. For example:
If the child rolls a ball, the adult might say, “Ball rolls fast!” and pause for a response or repetition.
If a child lines up toys, the adult can label: “Red car, blue car, green car.”
These interactions help build descriptive language, sequencing skills, and an understanding of turn-taking.
💡 Tips for Creating Meaningful Play Moments
Follow the child’s interests—whether it’s trains, animals, or shapes, lean into what they love.
Keep it short and sweet—brief, focused interactions often work better than extended play sessions.
Celebrate small wins—a shared smile or a new word is a meaningful step forward.
🌈 Play as a Pathway Ultimately, play is more than entertainment. It’s a bridge—connecting the child’s inner world to the people around them. With patience and the right tools, we can help neurodivergent kids communicate not just with words, but through joy, creativity, and connection.
