“X-8”: An Experimental Interactive Toy to Support Turn-Taking Games in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract Turn-taking is a type of interaction where two individuals alternate behaviour (e.g. during conversation). Such competence – which foundamental key in the social often compromised children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). Neurodevelopmental therapists report how it extremely difficult to teach this skill young ASDs, yet would be very important. In current proposal we present an early prototype interactive toy called X-8 : soft, wearable, six-legged octopus able distinguish between people, and produce different luminous patterns according user who touching it. The can then potentially support set up sensory-motor games based on turn-taking rules . A first proof concept described possible activities are proposed.