Sparking social initiation behaviors in children with Autism through full-body Interaction

We present the full-body interaction system Lands of Fog, a multi-user experience designed with and for children with ASD to foster social initiation and collaborative behaviors. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder which negatively impacts social communication abilities, resulting in significant problems forming and maintaining relationships with peers. Research suggests the use of Information and Communication Technologies to offer structured activities where individuals with ASD will be motivated to practice and develop these social behaviors, activities which deployed in inclusive schools could also help for social inclusion. We have completed two studies where children with ASD played with neurotypical children, one in a laboratory controlled setting and one in an inclusive elementary school. Results indicate that the system was successful in fostering motivation, socialization and collaboration. Moreover, the system was positively perceived by children and school professionals.