Ms Zainab Hajiah Redha, researcher at the Arabian Gulf University (AGU), examined the relationship between play and expressive and receptive language skills in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The study aimed to identify the most common forms of play among children with ASD and to determine if variations exist in play forms according to the severity of autism. It also sought to explore any correlation between play and the expressive and receptive language skills in these children.

The research came as part of the requirements to obtain a Master’s degree in Learning Difficulties and Developmental Disabilities, with a focus on autism. Ms Redha employed a descriptive-correlational and comparative methodology. The study sample comprised 71 children with ASD enrolled in special education centres in Kuwait, consisting of 50 males and 21 females. The research utilised the Expressive and Receptive Language Skills Scale and the Play Forms Scale designed for children with ASD.

The research findings revealed a significant correlation between play forms and language skills in children with ASD. Most dimensions of the play scale were found to be at an average level, with the exception of aggressive play, which was at a low level. The overall score for the play scale was also at an average level.

Additionally, the results highlighted variations in most dimensions of the play scale based on the severity of autism in children with ASD, as well as in the overall score of the scale, except for aggressive play, where no statistically significant differences were found across different severity groups.

Meanwhile, Ms Redha recommended the inclusion of play activities that enhance communication and linguistic expression, such as role-playing, dialogue, and the use of words and sentences in play contexts among children with ASD. She also advised regular and comprehensive assessments of play and communication skills among students with ASD to track progress and identify individual needs.