Play Therapy as a Tool for Enhancing Social Skills in Children with Disabilities: A Review

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Author Name :- Kishan Lal Bairwa,Dr. Vijendra Mishra,

Journal type:- NJRIP-National Journal of Research and Innovative Practices

Research Field Area :- Department of Education ; Volume 10, Issue 8, No. of Pages: 11

Your Research Paper Id :- 2025010405

Download Published File :- Click here

Abstraction :-

Play therapy is commonly utilized to enhance social, emotional, and communicative development in children with disabilities. This narrative review compiles empirical data published from 2015 to 2025 regarding play therapy methodologies and their effects on social skills in children with intellectual disabilities (ID), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and specific learning disabilities (SLD). We outline a conceptual framework that encompasses definitions, principles, and foundational concepts (e.g., person-centered, developmental, social learning, and naturalistic developmental behavioral therapies). We look at both directive and non-directive methods, as well as individual and group delivery formats and changes that are specific to ID, ASD, and SLD. Research demonstrates that various play therapy modalities, such as child-centered play therapy (CCPT), LEGO-based/group collaborative play, puppet and pretend play initiatives, and Learn to Play, can improve children’s interpersonal relationships, communication abilities, empathy, collaboration, and playfulness with peers. Mechanisms include the organization of symbolic and imaginative play, peer mediation, therapist-child attunement, and the encouragement of prosaically behaviors in stimulating, low-risk settings. Even though the results are promising, methodological differences, small sample sizes, inconsistent outcome measurements, and not enough long-term follow-up make it hard to draw clear conclusions. We identify barriers to implementation, including training, fidelity, and contextual resources, ethical issues, and gaps in research. We propose solutions for practice, policy, and future research to enhance the evidence base and ensure equitable access.

Keywords :-

play therapy, social skills,children with disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, specific learning disabilities, child-centered play therapy LEGO-based therapy, group play therapy, social communication

References :-

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