| The desire to have one’s child interact with and to | | | | - Begin slowly and with patience. First, have a |
| be accepted by others is the wish of all parents. | | | | conversation with the parent of the child you want to |
| When this does not occur the parent may become | | | | set the play date with. Come up with a simple way |
| concerned, anxious or worried. Parents of autistic | | | | to educate the parent about your child’s behaviors |
| children face this dilemma on a daily basis. They are | | | | and your desire to have the two children play. If the |
| very aware that their children interact differently and | | | | parent is receptive, the next step is to talk with the |
| display behaviors that are confusing to most. | | | | non-autistic child and parent together about your |
| The autistic child’s ability to interact and engage | | | | child’s desire to play. Next talk to your own child |
| with others is limited and varies on a continuum from | | | | about your intention; |
| complete noninvolvement with others to sporadic and | | | | - Set up the play date in your home. Your child is |
| limited involvement. For the autistic child involvement | | | | familiar with this environment; |
| with others can be confusing, intimidating and | | | | - Limit the time based on your child’s ability to be |
| frightening. Autistic children can benefit positively to | | | | with others. I would suggest a half hour. Decide on |
| the exposure to other children through play activities. | | | | an activity that you know that your child can engage |
| Some suggestions to consider in setting up play dates: | | | | in. Supervise the two children in the activity. |