Imitation Skills of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Early Childhood

The purpose of this study was to examine imitation skills of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in early childhood period. Firstly, classification of imitation skills, functions of imitation, developmental stages of imitation skills are explained. Afterwards, developmental progress of imitation skills of children with ASD and their limitations in exhibiting imitation skills are summarized in line with the related literature. Moreover, the developmental relationship between imitation skills and social interaction skills and language and communication skills for children with ASD are reviewed. Lastly, reflections of these findings on teaching imitation skills to children with ASD are discussed