Special Interests in Therapy for Neurodivergent Children. For many neurodivergent children and young people, special interests are more than just hobbies—they are a source of joy, focus, and deep connection. At Autism Consultancy Services (ACS), we view special interests as powerful tools for unlocking potential and creating meaningful breakthroughs in therapy.

What Are Special Interests?

Special interests are topics or activities that a child feels passionate about, often exploring them with remarkable focus and enthusiasm. These interests can range from LEGO® and Minecraft to animals, trains, or even a specific area of science. While these interests might seem niche or all-encompassing, they provide a window into a child’s world and a foundation for building skills and confidence.

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Why Special Interests Matter in Therapy

Using a child’s special interests in therapy transforms the process from a potentially daunting experience into something exciting and engaging. Here’s how incorporating special interests can benefit therapy:

  1. Building Trust and Rapport
    Special interests provide a natural starting point for connection. When children see their interests valued, they feel understood and respected, which fosters trust and a sense of safety in the therapeutic relationship.
  2. Increasing Motivation
    Engaging with a beloved activity or topic taps into a child’s intrinsic motivation. This makes therapy feel less like work and more like an opportunity to explore something they love, boosting participation and enthusiasm.
  3. Facilitating Skill Development
    Special interests can be used to teach and reinforce essential skills. For example, a LEGO® project can foster teamwork and problem-solving, while a role-playing game like Dungeons & Dragons encourages social interaction, strategic thinking, and emotional regulation.
  4. Reducing Anxiety
    Therapy can be overwhelming for some children, but working within the context of their special interest provides a comforting, familiar framework. This reduces anxiety and creates a safe space for growth.

How ACS Incorporates Special Interests in Therapy

At ACS, we design our Social and Emotional Capacity Building Groups to integrate special interests wherever possible, ensuring therapy is engaging and meaningful. Some examples include:

  • LEGO® Group: Children collaborate on building challenges, enhancing communication and teamwork skills.
  • Minecraft Group: Using Minecraft’s virtual world to teach collaboration, problem-solving, and social interaction.
  • Dungeons & Dragons Role-Playing Group: Imaginative storytelling that encourages cooperation and emotional expression.
  • 1:1 Sessions: Tailored activities, such as drawing favourite characters or discussing a specific passion, to build rapport and explore therapeutic goals.

Unlocking Potential Through Passion

Special interests are a gateway to learning, connection, and growth. By meeting neurodivergent children where they are and celebrating what makes them unique, therapy can become a joyful and empowering experience.

At ACS, we’re committed to using these passions to help children develop the skills they need to thrive, ensuring that therapy feels as extraordinary as the children we work with.

Contact us today to learn more about how we incorporate special interests into our therapy services.