Autistic Child Refuses to Leave the Playground: How to Make Leaving Easier

Leaving the playground can be especially hard for an autistic child who is deeply engaged in play and not ready for the transition. Prepare them before play ends with a clear warning, a visual timer, and a simple First–Then plan such as “First playground, then home.” When it is time to leave, keep reminders short and consistent and offer a small choice that still leads to leaving, such as walking to the car or carrying a favorite toy. Repeating the same predictable leaving routine can make future playground transitions less stressful.