06/05/2026
We know this to be true with our autistic kiddos we serve!
Research Insight✨
A randomized controlled trial exploring the effects of child-centered play therapy (CCPT) with autistic children found significant evidence that CCPT fosters feelings of relaxation and enhances behavior.
In this study, 65 autistic children ages 6–10 in Hong Kong participated in either:
• 8 sessions of CCPT, or
• a waitlist control group
Researchers used electroencephalography measurements and parent behavior reports before and after the intervention.
Children who received CCPT showed:
✨ Increased relaxation responses measured through EEG alpha power
✨ Significant behavioral improvements
✨ Increased social functioning
The authors also discuss directions for future research and important limitations.
This study is included in the Evidence-Based Child Therapy database at https://evidencebasedchildtherapy.com/