How the computer game Minecraft can help autism

[AGXStarseed]

(Not written by me)


Block building video game Minecraft could help children with autism to interact with others, according to medics.

A speech and language expert from the National Autistic Society said the game could help autistic children improve their communication, concentration and ability to solve problems.

Mum Lisa Taft said her 14-year-old son Donny "struggled with interaction" but enjoyed Minecraft because the game was "never-ending" and relied on "imagination".

Donny said: "My confidence has now improved... and I've made a lot of friends around the world."

This clip is originally from 5 live Breakfast on Wednesday 10th June 2015.

Release date: 10 Jun 2015
2 minutes

SOURCE (With Video): BBC Radio 5 live - In Short, How the computer game Minecraft can help autism
(Video may not work - apologies)

 

[Spiller]

I've seen 10 autistic kids sit playing minecraft on their laptops, all together in the same room and not saying a word to each other, but interacting and having fun!
My son, who may exhibit some Aspergers traits, doesn't make friends easily, but when he sees his best friend, who is officially diagnosed Autistic, they play together - mainly minecraft, but other stuff also - on their laptops.. you don't hear much conversation, but they're there for hours.
I've often heard people say that virtual interaction is not real interaction - but see it in action and then decide.. hey, other than a handful of real-world friends, my first-ever peer group is here on AC

 

[AKAsimon]

My mother works in a school and told me about a child there with ASD who plays minecraft on a public server. She said in addition to socialising in a way that he wouldn't in the "real" world, he's learned a lot about conflict resolution and just generally how to get along with others (whether these people are friends in the game or just passing strangers). That's hugely valuable in life.

 

[Titan04]

U am high functioning autistic and I love minecraft and people with autism are creative its realy fun as well

 

[AsheSkyler]

There is a special bond between victims hiding in fear under 1 block of dirt as they wait for sunrise to take away 15 hissing creepers ranging from Vanilla to Lightning to Ender and hoping their characters don't starve to death first. At least, if they're playing the Blood And Bones pack on the PC.