Play is an important part of child upbringing and the main part of child development. It has a positive effect on a child's social-emotional and cognitive development. In children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) play does not develop like in children with typical development. Many difficulties appear during play, such as stereotypical and repetitive behavior, absence of symbolic play, inability to understand emotions or gestures, agressive behavior, stress. The absence of symbolic play is very common in children with ASD, which can regress child development. Symbolic play in children affects cognitive development, language development and interaction with other children positively. However, no matter how difficult play can be for children with ASD, it is equally important as for children with typical development. Because of that, play therapy is often used as early intervention which – in an accessible, entertaining and enjoyable way - tries to encourage a child to communicate, join the play or initiate it. There are different types of play therapy. Some of them are ABA therapy, Floortime therapy and Child centered play therapy. Research has shown different results on the efficiency of individual therapy types. For children with ASD it is more difficult to adjust play with peers and to initiate play, but with professional staff, stimulative environment and appropriate content they can create a positive attitude towards play.