“Can I Play Too?” A Qualitative Study of Outdoor Play and Participation Among Autistic Preschoolers

Abstract

Abstract Importance: Outdoor play in homes, schools, and communities provides children with unique opportunities to explore their worlds, develop fundamental life skills, and experience belonging. However, few studies have explored outdoor free play among autistic preschoolers in natural settings from a neurodivergent-informed perspective. Objective: To explore the play preferences, opportunities, and challenges in outdoor play for autistic preschoolers. Design: In this qualitative study, the authors used a multimethod approach to data collection using visual, verbal, and projective techniques and thematic analysis to identify and describe outdoor play occupation as expressed by autistic preschoolers. Setting: Home, community, and preschool environments in a city in Ireland. Participants: Seven autistic children and their parents, from seven diverse preschool settings in Ireland. Results: Two overarching themes were identified: (1) outdoor play preferences and meaning and (2) the physical and social environments of outdoor play. The findings suggest that autistic preschoolers demonstrate distinctive play styles and preferences when playing freely outdoors, with physical and social barriers to outdoor play existing in community and educational contexts. Conclusions and Relevance: The findings suggest that autistic preschoolers’ outdoor play styles and preferences require support from adult advocates. Although the importance of relationships and social play cannot be overlooked, infrastructural accommodations for parents and schools are required if we are to create supportive and inclusive outdoor play environments and opportunities for freedom of expression for autistic children. Plain-Language Summary: This study explored the distinctive outdoor play preferences, opportunities, and challenges for autistic preschoolers. The findings show that autistic preschoolers face physical and social barriers to outdoor play and that they need parents, schools, and communities to create supportive and inclusive play environments and opportunities for freedom of expression.