Peer Play Groups Now Available

What are Peer Play Groups? 

The Integrated Play Groups (IPG) model was created by Pamela J. Wolfberg, Ph.D. to address the unique and complex challenges children on the autism spectrum experience in peer relations and play.  Integrated Play Groups consist of small groups of children on the autism spectrum (novice players) and typical peers/siblings (expert players) who regularly play together under the guidance of a qualified adult facilitator (play guide). We model our peer play groups after Dr. Wolfberg’s IPG structure and other similar models.

Who may participate in Peer Play Groups?

Peer Play Groups are customized as a part of a child’s individual education/therapy program.  The IPG model is appropriate for preschool and elementary-aged children (3 to 11 years).  Play groups are made up of 3 to 5 children, with a higher ratio of expert to novice players.  Novice players include children of all abilities on the autism spectrum and with related special needs.  Expert players include typical peers/siblings with strong social, communication and play skills.

What is the purpose of Peer Play Groups?

Research shows that peer play experiences are a vital part of children learning, development and culture.  Children on the autism spectrum face many obstacles playing and socializing with peers. Peer Play Groups are designed to enhance children’s social interaction, communication, play and imagination.  An equally important focus is on teaching the peer group to be more accepting, responsive and inclusive of children who relate and play in different ways.

Where and when do Peer Play Groups take place?

Peer Play Groups take place in natural play environments within the home, center, or community settings.  Play groups generally meet 1-2 times per week for 30-60 minute sessions over a six to twelve month period.  Sessions are carried out in specifically designed play spaces that include a wide range of motivation materials and activities.

How does an Peer Play Group work?

Play sessions are tailored to the children’s unique interests, abilities, and needs.  The adult methodically guides novice and expert players to engage in mutually enjoyed play activities that encourage reciprocal social interaction, communication and imagination- such as pretending, construction, art, music, movement and interactive games.  Gradually the children learn how to play together with less and less adult support.

What are the benefits of Peer Play Groups?

As demonstrated through award-winning research, novice players have benefited in the areas of social interaction, communication, language, representational play and related symbolic activity (writing and drawing).  Expert players have benefited by showing greater self-esteem, awareness, empathy and acceptance of individual differences.  Both novice and expert players have formed mutual friendships while having fun together.

Assessment and Tracking of PPG…

Play Questionnaires and Preference Inventories will be completed prior to the start of  Peer Play Groups to establish Play Goals.  Weekly PPG observations will be compiled into Profiles of Individual Play Development and Records of Progress Reports will be shared with parents monthly.

Cost:  Peer Play Groups are $45 per group and include monthly profiles of Individual Play Development as well as Records of Progress Reports. Expert players participate at no cost.

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Contributions and Benefits of Peer Play