How Video Games Help Autistic Children Build Social Skills

Video games can help autistic children learn social skills, especially in the context of autism and video games. Many autistic children who play video games feel lonely and have fewer close friends than their peers.

• Boys often play by themselves when they have free time, while
• Girls stay near other kids but still feel alone.
  Game-based help can enhance social skills and improve communication with others. Some games, like ‘mindlight’, might help lower anxiety, which is particularly relevant in discussions about autism and video games. However, we need more studies to know for sure. There are both positive and negative aspects, but video games offer new opportunities for autistic children to meet others and learn.

Key Takeaways

• Video games help autistic children learn social skills. They do this in a fun and safe way.
• Games have clear rules. This makes it easier for kids to understand how to act with others.
• Cooperative games help kids work together. They also help kids talk to each other. Kids practice sharing and solving problems.
• Role-playing games let children see things from different views. This helps them feel what others feel and understand their feelings.
• Board games are a simple way for kids to take turns. They also help kids talk with friends in a calm place.
• It is important to set limits on screen time. This keeps a healthy balance between gaming and other things.
• Parents can watch how their child gets better at social skills. They can write down changes during game play and tell teachers about them.
• Picking games that match a child’s interests helps learning. This makes learning social skills more fun and useful.

Social Challenges

Autistic children have special social challenges. These can make daily life hard. You might see problems with talking, making friends, and feeling nervous. Knowing about these issues helps you help autistic children better.

Communication

Talking is tough for many autistic children. They may find it hard to say what they mean. They also may not understand what others say. This can make it hard to make friends. It can also make school and family life harder.

Nonverbal Cues

Nonverbal cues are important in talking with others. Autistic children often do not notice small facial changes or gestures.

You might see them not look people in the eye. They may not know if someone is bored or interested. They can have trouble changing their voice to show feelings.

• Noticing small facial changes
• Understanding gestures
• Looking people in the eye
• Knowing if someone is bored or interested
• Changing voice to show feelings

You can help by showing these cues and giving clear advice.

Language Barriers

Language problems make talking even harder. Autistic children may not get jokes or sarcasm. They may miss what words really mean. They often do not look where others look or share attention. This is important for talking with others.

• Trouble with eye contact
• Hard time following others’ focus
• Problems sharing attention
• Not knowing how to change voice
• Not seeing personal space
• Trouble with jokes and sarcasm

You can help by using easy words and checking if they understand.

Peer Interaction

Making friends can be stressful for autistic children. They may not guess how others feel or act. They often do not know why someone is upset unless told.

Jokes and sarcasm are hard for them to spot. They may not know that others do not know what they know.

1. Guessing how others feel or act
2. Knowing why someone feels a certain way
3. Spotting jokes or sarcasm
4. Knowing others have different knowledge

These problems can cause mix-ups and make close friendships hard.

Wing says social problems in autism fit three groups: not knowing social rules, trouble talking with others, and copying or understanding others.

Anxiety

Feeling nervous often comes with social problems. Autistic children may stay away from others because they feel stressed. Being nervous makes talking and making friends harder. Not wanting to be social can make this worse.

Being sensitive to sounds, lights, or touch can make social events hard. You might see them act in ways that seem odd to other kids.

Knowing about these social problems is important when thinking about autism and video games. Video games can give safe places for autistic children to practice social skills.

Autism and Video Games

Structured Play

Children with autism like knowing what will happen next. Video games can give them this comfort. Most games have simple goals, rules, and rewards.

This helps kids know what to do. Games with steps help kids solve problems. They also make kids feel more sure of themselves.

• Kids with autism do better when things are predictable.
• Games with easy goals and rules help kids solve problems.
• Serious games teach with clear feedback.
• Games can show social situations so kids can practice:
  • Taking turns
  • Starting talks
  • Keeping eye contact
  • Understanding nonverbal cues

You can use these games to help kids practice social skills. The games are safe and easy to understand. This makes learning fun and less scary.

Safe Social Spaces

Video games can make safe places for kids to talk. Many kids feel less worried when they chat online or in a game.

You can use these places to help kids with autism meet others. They can find friends who like the same things. This makes talking to others less scary.

• Young people say online games give safe ways to meet others.
• Gaming lets kids talk how they want, which lowers worry.
• Liking the same games helps kids feel included.

The free Minecraft server Autcraft, made for people with autism and their families, shows how online communities can support positive social interactions in a safe space.

When you use these safe places, you help kids learn to talk and share. They also learn to work with others. This can make real-life talking easier.

Stress Relief

Many kids with autism feel stress when with others. Video games can help lower this stress. You can use games to help kids feel better. Some games let kids show their feelings in a safe way. This helps them let go of bad feelings and learn new social skills.

When you use video games in therapy, you help kids relax and learn. This can help them every day.

You can see that autism and video games work well together. Games give order, safe places to meet, and ways to feel less stressed. Picking good games helps kids with autism learn social skills and feel more sure of themselves.

Game Types

Serious Games

Social Skills Training

Serious games can help autistic children practice social skills. These games teach certain behaviors and ways to talk with others.

Many games use virtual agents or scenes to show social situations. Children get clear goals and feedback, so learning is easier.

Here are some serious games that help with social skills:

Pick games that fit your child’s likes and needs. These games give a safe place to practice talking and sharing. They also help kids understand others. Serious games help children feel more sure of themselves in social places.

Cooperative Games

Teamwork

Cooperative games help children work together for a goal. Teamwork and talking are part of the fun. These games teach kids to share ideas and solve problems. They also learn to help each other.

Cooperative play is important in therapy for autistic kids. It teaches kids to take turns and listen to others. When you use these games, you help kids grow emotionally and mentally. Kids feel better in groups and learn to make friends.

Try games where players must work together, like building or solving puzzles. These games help kids practice teamwork and talking in a fun way.

Role-Playing

Empathy

Role-playing games let kids act as different people. They can see how others feel and think. You can guide kids to imagine what someone else feels. This helps them learn empathy and understand feelings.

Studies show that when kids act as a character, they get better at understanding others. Role play helps kids show feelings and control emotions. Kids practice seeing things from another person’s view, which is important for friendships.

• Role play helps kids learn empathy, especially those with autism.
• It lets kids try new roles and learn about feelings.
• This helps with controlling emotions and seeing other views.

You can use role-playing games to teach kids how to act in social situations. These games make learning about feelings and friendships more fun. Mixing role-play with other games gives kids a great way to build social skills.

You can see that autism and video games work well together if you pick the right games. Serious games, cooperative games, and role-playing games all help kids build social skills in different ways.

Board Games

Social Lubricant

Board games can help autistic children learn social skills in groups. These games have clear rules, so everyone knows what to do. This makes talking with others less scary and more simple. When you play board games, kids know when to take turns and how to share. They also get chances to talk with others.

Many autistic children feel nervous around other people. Board games help because the rules show what happens next. Kids do not have to guess what to do. You see them relax and join the game more easily. The rules help kids focus on playing, not on what to say.

Board games help kids talk to each other. Players need to ask questions and explain their moves. They also share ideas during the game. This helps autistic children learn how to start and answer in talks. You see them get better at speaking and listening.

Board games also teach teamwork. Kids work together to solve problems or win. You watch them learn to help and support each other. Playing together helps kids feel close to their friends. Kids feel like they belong when they play as a team.

You can see many good things when you use board games with autistic children:

• Tabletop games with rules make social times less scary.
• Clear rules help kids feel sure in groups.
• Playing together helps kids talk and feel close.
• Board games give a simple way to talk and share.
• Playing by the rules helps kids make friends.
• Playing more board games helps kids talk and make friends better.
• Kids feel included and have fun, which makes them want to play more.

Games like “Uno,” “Connect Four,” or “Ticket to Ride” are good choices. These games are easy to learn and help kids talk to each other.

You can also try games where everyone works together to win. These games teach kids to share ideas and solve problems as a group.

Pick games that match what the child likes and can do. Show the rules one step at a time and show good ways to act while playing.

Every time you play a board game, you help autistic children practice social skills. The safe and simple setting lets them try new ways to talk and make friends.

Over time, you see them get more brave and want to join group games. Board games help make talking with others easier and more fun for everyone.

Evidence & Examples

Research Studies

Many studies show video games help autistic children with social skills. Researchers test serious games, virtual reality, and online platforms.

These studies show kids get better at reading emotions and making eye contact. Kids also learn teamwork and sharing attention. They control their feelings better after playing these games.

Here is a summary of key findings:

Immersive games and virtual reality make learning social skills more fun. Researchers say more studies are needed, but results look good.

Parent Stories

Many parents talk about their kids making friends through video games. Some kids have trouble talking at school but find friends in online games.

Parents see their kids become more confident after playing games with others. Board games at home help kids learn to take turns and listen.

“My son never joined group activities before. After playing Minecraft with other kids, he started talking more and even invited friends over,” one parent says.

Games help kids practice social skills in a safe place. Parents notice less worry and more smiles after game time. Kids learn to solve problems together and celebrate small wins.

Expert Views

Experts say video games are good for social skills training. Structured games and role-playing help kids show their feelings. Experts also say teamwork games help kids talk and work together.

Here are some expert recommendations:

Experts support using games for social growth. Pick games that match your child’s likes and needs. You help your child by choosing games that teach talking, sharing, and teamwork. Using video games wisely gives your child new ways to connect and do well.

Practical Tips

Game Selection

Picking good video games for autistic children is important. You should find games that help with talking and sharing.

Some games let kids work together. Other games help kids practice speaking. Think about what your child likes. Also, think about what skills you want them to learn.

• Find games that help kids talk and share.
• Pick games your child likes so they want to play.
• Play games as a family to show good behavior.
• Make clear rules about which games are okay.
• Use games to help your child calm down when upset.

You can help your child by joining in their gaming. Playing together lets you show good ways to talk and act in games.

Boundaries

Setting rules for video games helps kids do other things too. Clear rules help kids know when and how long to play. You can follow these steps to set good limits:

1. Make sure homework and chores are done before playing.
2. Set a time limit for games each day or week.
3. Check the rules after a few weeks and change if needed.
4. Tell your child what happens if rules are broken.
5. Know which games your child plays and say yes or no.
6. Watch your child follow the rules and remind them if needed.
7. Suggest other fun things like going outside or board games.

If your child plays too much or stops liking other things, talk with them and change the plan. Let the whole family help make new rules. Use kind words to explain why limits matter.

Positive Interaction

You can help your child learn social skills while playing games. The table below shows ways to help your child interact well:

Try to praise your child when they use good social skills. Small treats or kind words make them feel proud and want to learn more. Using these tips helps your child grow in games and in real life.

Progress Tracking

Tracking your child’s progress helps you see what works and what needs change. You can use simple tools and methods to measure growth in social skills.

When you keep records, you notice patterns and celebrate small wins. Progress tracking also helps you share updates with teachers or therapists.

Start by setting clear goals. Decide which social skills you want your child to improve. You might focus on eye contact, taking turns, or joining group talks. Write these goals down so you can check them later.

You can use a notebook or a digital app to record daily or weekly observations. Note how your child acts during game time.

Look for signs like starting conversations, asking questions, or showing empathy. If you see new skills, write them down. If your child struggles, note that too.

Try using a simple table to track progress:

You can use emojis or colors to make tracking fun and easy. Review the table each week. Talk with your child about what went well and what can improve.

Share progress with teachers or therapists. They can give advice and help set new goals.

You can also use video recordings. Record short clips of your child playing games. Watch these together and talk about what you see. Ask your child how they felt during the game. This helps build self-awareness and confidence.

Set up regular check-ins. Every month, review your notes and videos. Look for growth in social skills. If you see progress, celebrate with a small reward or praise. If you notice problems, adjust your approach. Try new games or change the way you play.

Progress tracking helps you stay involved. You learn what helps your child and what does not. You also build a record that shows real improvement over time. When you track progress, you support your child’s journey toward better social skills.

Risks & Limits

Screen Time

Kids sometimes play video games for many hours. Too much screen time can cause problems for autistic kids. Playing games for a long time can make sensory issues worse.

Bright lights and loud sounds in games may be too much. Kids might do the same things over and over in games. This can make repetitive behaviors stronger.

If kids spend most of their time on screens, they miss talking face-to-face. This can slow down how they learn social skills. Long game sessions can also make it harder for kids to handle sensory information. You may notice more stress or anxiety. Sitting for a long time can cause health problems like gaining weight.

Here are some risks from too much screen time:

• Sensory overload from bright lights and loud sounds
• Stronger repetitive behaviors
• Less face-to-face talking
• Trouble with sensory processing and self-control
• More stress and anxiety
• Sitting too much and risk of obesity

You can help by making clear rules for gaming time. Encourage breaks and other fun things, like playing outside or board games. Balance is important for healthy growth.

Online Safety

Online games can let kids explore new worlds, but safety is important. You should set clear rules for when and what games your child plays.

Having a set playtime helps kids know what will happen. You can offer different activities to keep your child interested and social.

Talk with your child about staying safe online. Use their favorite games to start talks about safe choices. Watch how your child acts and feels after playing games. If you see changes in mood or behavior, change the rules. If you worry about gaming addiction, ask experts for help.

Tips for online safety:

• Make clear rules for gaming, like time limits and game choices
• Suggest different activities for structure and social time
• Use games to talk about online safety
• Watch your child’s mood and actions
• Change rules if needed
• Get help from professionals if needed

You help keep your child safe online. Stay involved and talk about what happens in games.

Empathy Development

Video games can help kids learn empathy. Some games, like “Crystals of Kaydor,” teach kids to understand feelings.

Studies show these games can change brain networks for empathy and emotion control. Autistic kids often find empathy hard, so these games may help.

The game was made to see if learning empathy in play could change brain connections. Results showed better empathy networks in two weeks. More studies are needed, but these games give hope for building empathy in autistic kids.

Pick games that teach empathy and ask your child about feelings. Ask questions about game characters and their emotions. This helps your child practice understanding others in games and real life.

Individual Needs

Every autistic child has unique strengths and challenges. You need to think about your child’s personal needs when using video games for social skill development.

Some children enjoy group games. Others prefer solo play. You can help your child by watching how they react to different games and social situations.

You may notice that your child learns best in quiet settings. Some children feel comfortable with online friends. Others need face-to-face practice. You can use video games as one tool, but you should also encourage other activities. Try to mix game time with outdoor play, art, or reading. This helps your child grow in many ways.

Ask your child what they like about their favorite games. Use their interests to guide your choices. You can build social skills by connecting game themes to real-life situations.

Children with autism may have sensory needs. Bright lights or loud sounds in games can cause stress. You should check game settings and adjust volume or brightness.

Some games let you turn off flashing lights or background music. You can make the game environment safer and more comfortable.

Here is a table to help you match games to your child’s needs:

You can talk with teachers or therapists about your child’s progress. Share what works and what does not. You may find that some games help with eye contact or teamwork. Other games may not fit your child’s style. You should stay flexible and open to change.

Every child grows at their own pace. You can celebrate small steps. If your child joins a new game or talks to a friend, you can praise their effort. You help your child build confidence by noticing progress.

You should remember that video games are only one part of social learning. You can use games to practice skills, but you should also encourage real-world social time. Invite friends over for board games. Join community events. You help your child learn to balance screen time with other activities.

You know your child best. Trust your instincts. Adjust your approach as your child’s needs change. You can create a safe and supportive environment for growth.

You can use video games as a helpful tool. By focusing on your child’s individual needs, you support their journey toward better social skills and happier friendships.

Next Steps

Balanced Play

You can help your child get more from video games by keeping play balanced. Video games are fun and helpful, but too much is not good. Set clear limits and suggest other activities. Try these steps to build healthy habits:

1. Use moderation so your child enjoys gaming and stays healthy.
2. Cut down gaming time slowly if it gets too long.
3. Ask your child to try hobbies like drawing, sports, or music.

You can use these ideas to keep play balanced:

Do not put gaming devices in bedrooms. Take breaks to stand up and move. Limit game time to two hours each day for kids. Try having one day a week with no games to explore other interests.

Collaboration

You can help your child grow socially by working with teachers and therapists. Working together gives your child strong support. Parents can help by setting up group play in games like Minecraft. Shared goals and talking during games help kids work together and solve problems.

• Give your child chances to play with others in safe online places.
• Set shared goals in games to teach teamwork and talking.
• Play with your child to show good social skills.
• Work with teachers and therapists to make routines that help your child feel safe.
• Use praise to motivate your child and celebrate social wins.
• Plan group activities and playdates to help your child make friends.
• Teach social skills by using role-play and social scripts.

A parent-led video gaming program can be easy and helpful for building social skills, especially when other services are hard to find.

Ongoing Support

You can give ongoing support by mixing game-based learning, technology, and community activities. Video games give your child a safe place to practice social skills with clear rules.

Digital tools can show real-life social scenes and offer learning just for your child. Community social skills training helps your child use what they learn in real life.

Check in often with teachers and therapists to see progress. Celebrate small wins and change your plan as your child grows. By using video games with other activities and strong support, you help your child build lasting social skills.

You can use video games to help autistic children learn social skills. Studies show that all 17 studies found better social skills in autistic kids and teens.

Video games give kids a safe place to try and grow. Games have clear goals and give quick feedback. They can be changed to fit what each child needs.

Games help kids control their feelings and feel more confident. Work with parents, teachers, and therapists to help your child. You can really help your child do better.

FAQ

What types of video games help autistic children build social skills?

You can choose games with teamwork, role-play, or clear rules. Cooperative games, serious games, and board games work well. These games help your child practice talking, sharing, and understanding others.

How much screen time is safe for my child?

Experts suggest you limit screen time to two hours each day. You can set clear rules and encourage breaks. Try mixing game time with outdoor play or other activities.

Can video games replace real-life social interaction?

Video games help your child practice social skills, but you should not use them as a replacement for real-life interaction. You can balance game time with face-to-face activities and group play.

Are online games safe for autistic children?

Online games can be safe if you set rules and monitor play. You should talk with your child about online safety. Use privacy settings and check who your child plays with.

Play online games together to teach safe habits.

How do I track my child’s progress with social skills?

You can use a simple chart or notebook. Write down new skills, like eye contact or teamwork. Review progress each week. Share updates with teachers or therapists.

What should I do if my child gets frustrated during games?

You can pause the game and talk with your child. Ask how they feel. Suggest a break or switch to a different activity. Praise your child for trying and help them calm down.

Do video games help with empathy?

Some games teach empathy by showing feelings and stories. You can ask your child about characters’ emotions. Games like “Crystals of Kaydor” help your child understand others.