From Play to Game. Smart Toys for Inclusive Physio-Cognitive Therapy

The research presented is placed in the field of design for health and well-being and focuses on the role of play in supporting educational inclusive practices aimed at children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). More specifically, the paper proposes some outcomes of the interdisciplinary research “Pro-Ability/Sens-Ability”, carried out by the authors, that led to the development of a play interface (physical and virtual) that implements music therapy for the enhancement of the motor skills of children with ASD. The paper presents: – the state of the art considered relevant to the evaluation of the positive influence, in clinical and therapeutic practice, of play dynamics guided and supported by music therapy; – some relevant study cases related to the project game consoles developed in the specific scientific area of interest of the present paper; – the user research: quantitative user research regarding autistic users (supported by care givers); qualitative user research regarding the interview of experts (music therapist, pediatric neuro-psychomotor nurse); – the mockup of a play console that integrates the virtual and physical interface.