Blog post author: Onna Solomon, MSW
Giggle Time: Establishing the Social Connection by Susan Aud Sonders
Giggle Time is not a new book (my copy is from 2003), but as a P.L.A.Y. Project Home Consultant, I continue to find it to be a wonderful source of ideas for play activities.
As the publisher states: “It describes in accessible detail how to communicate with children with autism and gives clear instructions on “how to” techniques for developing language skills. Specifically addressing developmental delays, Giggle Time helps to lay the necessary framework for future language growth by turning the actions the child initiates into interactions with meaning. This is a user-friendly guide, packed full of fun and child-centered exercises that can be carried out at home or in the classroom.”
The methods and techniques are very much in line with The P.L.A.Y. Project’s primary goals of building relationships and focusing on fun. The author emphasizes reading the child’s cues and building on the child’s interest during “giggle games,” explaining “how to capture the moment and create a spontaneous game out the the child’s actions.”
The activities in the book focus on helping the child move up the Functional Developmental Levels of the DIR framework. If you are looking for some step-by-step activities for play time, this book is a great resource!
Is there a book you think we should highlight on our blog? Leave a comment or email info@playproject.org with your recommendation.