A Virtual Pet for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Abstract

In Egypt, about 33.6% of children with developmental disabilities have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), social challenges are particularly acute for those with Asperger syndrome, often leading to marginalization and limited opportunities. This project proposes an innovative solution: an Android application featuring an interactive virtual pet companion powered by augmented reality (AR). Developed with the Unity game engine and MediaPipe for pose estimation, the app aims to provide a safe and engaging platform for children with Asperger syndrome to practice social interaction, develop emotional learning skills, and combat social isolation. This project targets children aged 5–12, seeking to improve their social skills, emotional regulation, and engagement with their surroundings through playful interaction with the virtual pet. By addressing the unique needs of children with Asperger syndrome in the Egyptian context, this project has the potential to foster their social integration and well-being, paving the way for a more inclusive future. Evaluation reveals promising results (software-wise), with a 92% effectiveness rate in guiding users toward goals, 93 % efficiency in resource utilization, and manageable technical performance.