One on one Structured play with typical kids. She can't be expected to know how to play with other children. She has to be taught. Finding where her common ground is will be very helpful. Hide and seek, tickling games, coloring, a puzzle.... Typical children are doing lots of creative play and it may be difficult for her to join in. If a parent is guiding the play and it is highly structured and organized, both she and the other child will benefit from not having to move things along themselves.

finding other children her age with autism..and don't expect them to do "typical" things, but allow them to play as they do, the point of friendship is fun and being yourself...ask her teachers if there are any other similar kids (same interest, excited behaviors, habits) in her class, and invite for a playdate some where your daughter has fun..or over your house if you can and set it up with active things (limit "toy" or "stim) access.

If you can find a social skills group near you that would be a good way to work on friendship skills and hopefully you can meet families with similar challenges. My little one is also doing Special Needs soccer through AYSO's VIP program this fall and that seems promising for socialization so far.

Friends have always been difficult to find. Depending on the level of your child's Autism, you may look for local groups where other parents of Autism hangout. Many times, your child won't care about having friends. And that is okay.

Their 'best friend' maybe a favorite children's program or toy. Be prepared to have a large collection of their favorite DVDs that they will want to watch 20 times a day.