Breakout Session

Peer Play Strategies: Making an Impact on Social Reciprocity and Communication for Autistic Preschoolers 

11-11:50 a.m. BEST 135

Presented by: Kathy Bourque, PhD, Juniper Gardens Children's Project; Janet Weaver, Project Coordinator, JGCP; Riley Timmons, Assistant Researcher, JGCP

Delays in social reciprocity and communication are core symptoms of autism. Balanced communication turns is a better indicator of higher quality interactions. This session focuses on creating successful environments and teaching peers to be responsive play partners to improve  autistic preschoolers ability to engage in reciprocal communication exchanges. The children have limited or no spoken language, and are learning to use an iPad with voice output app. Videos will demonstrate positive changes in social interactions, documented by measuring changes in both peer and child communication skills.