Abstract
Objective: Identify which methods or procedures professionals use in care to develop and enhance the skills of the child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder through functional play. Methods: This is an evaluative, exploratory, action research type study with a qualitative and quantitative approach. The place of the investigation was in a Child and Youth Psychosocial Service Center (CAPS-IJ). Professionals from a multi-professional team who work in the CAPS-IJ services with patients with Autistic Spectrm Disorder (TEA) participated in the research. Data collection was performed using questionnaires with open and closed questions on the topic. Results: Given the responses obtained, the professionals' superficial knowledge about the importance of functional play in the care of children with ASD is verified, as it helps in the total development, becoming essential in the therapeutic process, validating and enhancing the skills. of the child, taking advantage of playfulness as a tool that promotes development. Conclusion: The results demonstrate the lack of knowledge and the lack of training for teaching skills through playing. through this study, the importance of playing in the therapeutic process and the knowledge of these methods by professionals as a tool for the acquisition of skills are emphasized.