Preparing Your Child for Their First ASD Play Group: A Step-by-Step Parent Guide

Starting an ASD play group can feel like a huge milestone — and it’s normal for parents to feel excited yet a little unsure. Play groups give children on the autism spectrum a safe space to practice social communication skills, make friends, and learn through play.

If you’re wondering how to help your child feel confident, calm, and ready before their first session, you’re not alone. This guide breaks down simple, practical steps — plus a free checklist — to help the first day go smoothly.

Looking for ASD play groups in Toronto? Thera+Kids offers therapist-led play groups tailored to each child’s unique strengths and needs.

Step 1 — Understand What an ASD Play Group Is

Before your child attends, it helps to know what to expect.

• Therapist-led vs. community groups: Some play groups are guided by speech-language pathologists or occupational therapists (like Thera+Kids), while others are run by community centers or parent networks.

• Typical structure: Small groups, play-based activities, guided social interactions, and opportunities to practice sharing, turn-taking, problem solving, and conversation.

• Core benefits: Building friendships, learning to understand emotions and social cues, improving communication, and practicing flexible play.

Understanding the structure will help you explain it to your child and set realistic expectations.

Step 2 — Talk About What Will Happen (Visual Prep)

Children with autism often feel more comfortable when they know what to expect.

• Use social stories: Create a simple picture story about attending the play group — arriving, saying hello, playing, snack time, and goodbye.

• Show visuals: If possible, ask the facilitator for photos of the play space or themselves.

• Read books about friendships and play: Books like Hands Are Not for Hitting or Llama Llama Time to Share can help prepare.

Step 3 — Visit the Space or Meet the Therapist (If Possible)

A short visit before the first session can reduce anxiety. Walk through the entrance, show where coats go, and introduce your child to the therapist. Familiarity helps the first day feel safe rather than overwhelming.

Step 4 — Practice Key Social Skills at Home

Before group begins, try gentle practice at home:

• Turn-taking: Play with cars or blocks and take turns.

• Greetings: Practice waving, saying “hi,” or using AAC to greet others

• Waiting: Use a timer or visual cards to show turns.

• Asking for help: Role-play asking for assistance.

Small rehearsals can make interactions in the group easier.

Step 5 — Prepare Comfort Items & Tools

Many children feel calmer when they have familiar items with them:

• Favorite toy, fidget, or stuffed animal.

• AAC device or visuals if your child uses them.

• Noise-cancelling headphones for sound sensitivity.

• Snacks, water, and an extra set of clothes for comfort.

Step 6 — Plan the Day for Calm Transitions

• Keep the day simple before group (avoid long errands or surprises).

• Show a visual schedule: “breakfast → play group → lunch.”

• Leave early to avoid rushing and allow time to settle in.

Step 7 — Communicate With the Group Facilitator

Your child’s success often depends on collaboration.

• Share your child’s strengths, preferences, and calming strategies.

• Ask about routines, snack policies, and how big feelings are handled.

• Stay connected — updates help everyone support your child better.

Step 8 — Encourage & Debrief After

• Celebrate small wins: “You played blocks with a friend!” or “You said hello!”

• Ask what they liked or didn’t like — listen without pressure.

• Show the calendar when the next group is happening to build comfort and predictability.

Free Download: First ASD Play Group Prep Checklist

Want an easy reminder for the big day? Here’s what to pack and prepare:

• Social story or visual schedule

• Favorite comfort toy or fidget

• AAC device / visuals

• Snacks and water

• Noise-cancelling headphones (if needed)

• Extra clothes (just in case)

• Key info to share with facilitator (triggers, calming tools, allergies)

Downloadable checklist coming soon — we can design this as a branded PDF for parents to print and bring.

Why Parents in Toronto Choose Thera+Kids

At Thera+Kids, our therapist-led ASD play groups are designed to help children feel safe, have fun, and develop real-life social communication skills.

We use a play-based, neurodiversity-affirming, and family-centered approach, and work closely with parents so every child gets the right level of support.

If you’re looking for an ASD play group in Toronto that’s welcoming and guided by pediatric therapy experts, book an assessment with our team or visit our Contact Us page to get started.

FAQ

Q1. What exactly happens during an ASD play group?

Most groups are small (4–6 children) and guided by therapists who use play-based activities to teach social skills. A session might begin with a welcome song, followed by structured play (turn-taking games, pretend play, building together), movement activities, and a calming goodbye routine. Some programs also include parent feedback time at the end.

Q2. How are therapist-led play groups different from regular play dates or daycare?

Therapist-led play groups are intentional and skill-focused. Every activity is designed to target social communication, emotional regulation, and play skills. Facilitators watch for moments to teach ( such as helping a child request a toy or modeling how to join a game) rather than letting play happen without support.

Q3. At what age should my child join an ASD play group?

Children can benefit as soon as they begin showing interest in other kids or play, often around 3–4 years old. Some programs welcome older children and teens who need extra support with social interaction. It’s more about the developmental stage than age.

Q4. My child doesn’t talk yet. Can they still attend? 

Yes! Many play groups support non-speaking or minimally verbal children. Therapists use gestures, visuals, AAC devices, and modeling to help children communicate and participate at their own level.

Q5. What if my child doesn’t want to join the activities?

It’s common for children to observe first. Skilled facilitators slowly invite participation without forcing it. Over time, most kids become more comfortable and start engaging when they’re ready.

Q6. How long does it take to see progress?

Every child is different, but parents often notice small changes within a few sessions — like making more eye contact, taking turns, or staying longer in group play. Consistency and reinforcement at home speed up progress.

Q7. Will the therapist tell me what to practice at home? 

Yes. Most therapist-led play groups share take-home tips so parents can keep practicing skills like greetings, sharing, or calming strategies in everyday life.