A nurse is assessing a child with ASD and concurrent social withdrawal. What intervention should the nurse prioritize?

A. Advising parents to limit playtime to reduce overstimulation may help manage sensory overload, but it does not address social withdrawal or promote development of social skills. Limiting interaction can worsen social isolation, so this is not the priority intervention. B. Focusing purely on managing anxiety without considering social skills is incomplete. While anxiety management is important, children with autism spectrum disorder also benefit from interventions that enhance social engagement. Ignoring social skill development would not address the child’s withdrawal. C. Encouraging the child to participate in activities with peers to improve social skills is correct. Social interaction is a core area of difficulty in ASD. Structured and supportive peer activities can help the child practice communication, cooperation, and social engagement, while also addressing concurrent withdrawal. This intervention promotes social development in a safe and guided manner, making it the priority. D. Recommending individualized play activities to avoid peer interaction may reduce anxiety but does not help the child develop social skills. Avoiding peers reinforces social withdrawal and delays social competence, so this is not the most appropriate intervention.