The Effectiveness of Peer-Based Interventions on the Development of Leisure Skills in Children and Youth with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Systematic Review

ObjectiveTo examine and synthesize the evidence regarding the effects of peer-based interventions on the leisure skills of children and youth from 3-21 years of age with neurodevelopmental disorders.MethodA systematic review was conducted. Six databases were electronically searched, and 263 records were retrieved and evaluated using standard quality assessment criteria.ResultsSeventeen articles were included. Three main types of peer-based interventions were identified, peer mediated, peer networking, and peer mentored interventions.ConclusionThere is strong evidence to suggest that peer mediated interventions, peer networking and peer mentored interventions can be beneficial for children and youth with neurodevelopmental disorders to increase their participation in social, leisure, and recreational activities and develop their play, social, and leisure skills, and enhance their physical and psychosocial health and quality of life.