'Pokemon Go' & Autism: How Popular AR Game Is Helping Kids With Autism

By now, many parents must already be aware of the "Pokemon Go" craze. If they aren't already playing it, then they might have co-workers, neighbors or friends who do. They also might have kids who enjoy "Pokemon Go" on their mobile phones.

Since its release last July 6, the AR game has taken over lives. But while "Pokemon Go" has its good points and bad points, its impact is unexpectedly more felt among kids with autism. Parents and educators attest that they have been seeing good results. How much help is "Pokemon Go" bringing to children with autism?

'Pokemon Go' Is Making Children With Autism More Sociable 

On Reddit, a post highlights how one parent was able to witness how his son with autism came out of his shell, so to speak. The post related how the boy, who was allowed to play "Pokemon Go" based on the parent's friend's recommendation, has since been going to playgrounds. He's less rigid and more relaxed about routines. He has also started socializing with other kids, smiling and verbalizing to other people, even to strangers.

The parent also witnessed how strangers helped out his son with autism as he played "Pokemon Go." They would give him instructions and tips, and some have cheered him on to catch the pocket monsters. The boy would also reply with a "Thank you," which was something he has not done before.

Whether you like Pokemon Go or not. Please read this incredible piece.
"MY AUTISTIC CHILD IS SOCIALISING!" #autism pic.twitter.com/J7NPuHb8Rn

— Stryder @ #mplex2016 (@BigGreenFolf) July 14, 2016

Another mom shared her testimony on how "Pokemon Go" has been influential in changing the routines of his son with autism. "The boy who fantasized about his whole summer being in front of his computer was voluntarily outside walking around," Elizabeth Barnes writes on The Might. She adds that she has configured the game to limit some data access and she accompanies her son on his Pokemon hunts.

'Pokemon Go' Has Loads Of Potential Teaching Moment For Children With Autism

Teacher and autism expert Craig Smith is excited about the growing popularity and demand of "Pokemon Go." He posted a detailed blog for parents and fellow teachers to encourage and guide them on using "Pokemon Go" as a teaching moment for children with autism.

Smith said that we're only scratching the surface of the app's potential. He's optimistic about what this could potentially bring. He hopes that developers would be able to come up with other similar AR games that can help kids with autism socially and academically, per Gizmodo.