Autism: Early Intervention
Research Supporting Play-based Interventions
Emerging research strongly suggests that child centered, relationship based intervention is very effective in helping young
children with autistic spectrum disorders gain language and social skills. Below is a list of the most recent research evidence
including Dr. Solomon’s findings based on the PLAY Project’s Home Consulting model (see
Abstract or download the full length article [PDF]).
- Greenspan, S.I., and Wieder, S. (1997) “Developmental Patterns and Outcomes in Infants and Children with Disorders in
Relating and Communication: A Chart Review of 200 Cases of Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders”. The Journal of
Developmental and Learning Disorder, Volume 1, No. 1. 87-141.
- Jocelyn LJ, et al. Treatment of Children with Autism: A Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate a Caregiver-Based
Intervention Program in Community Day-Care Centers. Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics 1998, 19(5), 326-334.
- Mahoney G, Perales, F. Relationship-Focused Early Intervention with Children with Pervasive Developmental Disorders
and Other Disabilities: A Comparative Study, JDBP 26, 2; April 2005.
- Ozonoff S, Cathcart K. Effectiveness of a Home Program Intervention for Young Children with Autism. Journal of
Autism and Development Disorders 1998, 28, 25-32.
- Sheinkopf SJ and Siegel B. Home-Based Behavioral Treatment of Young Children with Autism. Journal of Autism and
Developmental Disorders 1998, 28(1), 15-23.
- Solomon R, et al. Pilot study of a parent training program for young children with autism: The PLAY Project Home
Consultation model. Autism: The International Journal of Research and Practice 2007, Volume 11, No. 3, 205-224.
