Asperger Syndrome in Children is a category of autism spectrum disorder, a pervasive developmental disorder (PDD). PDDs involve delays in developing many basic skills, most notably the ability to socialize with others, communicate, and use imagination.
Children diagnosed with AS are on the higher-functioning end of the autism spectrum disorder. They have normal to high intelligence quotients and can be educated through mainstream school options. Still, like those with autism, children with AS have difficulty with social and communication skills and require special education services.
As with other autism spectrum disorders, early intervention is essential for successfully treating children with AS, and most respond well to highly structured, specialized programs.
Symptoms of Asperger Syndrome in Children
Asperger’s Syndrome affects each person differently and can vary from severe to mild cases like other PDD. An individual diagnosed with AS may have all or some of the following behaviors:
- Problems with non-verbal behaviors such as eye contact, facial expression, and body language in social situations
- Difficulty interpreting social cues
- Socially and emotionally inappropriate responses
- Difficulty developing relationships with peers
- Strict adherence to routines
- Preoccupation with a particular subject(s)
- Difficulty judging personal space
- Sensitivity to the environment includes loud noises, odors, clothing, and food textures. Impaired speech and language skills
- Difficulty understanding the feelings of others
- Using a formal style of speech, often called “little professor,” verbose
- The literal interpretation of language and trouble comprehending implied meanings
- Extensive vocabulary
- Superior memory
- recurring finger flapping or twisting
- Difficulty holding conversations
What Causes Asperger’s Syndrome?
Asperger’s syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. The cause of Asperger’s syndrome is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
How to Help a Child with Asperger’s?
Asperger’s Syndrome is a neurobiological disorder on the autism spectrum, characterized by difficulties in social interaction, nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors or interests. Children with Asperger’s often have difficulty in school and making friends. If you know a child with Asperger’s, there are some things you can do to help them.
Here are some tips:
1. Be patient. Children with Asperger’s may move or speak more slowly than other kids their age. They may also have trouble understanding jokes or sarcasm.
2. Be clear and concise when you speak. Asperger’s can make it hard for kids to process information, so try to avoid using too many words or speaking too quickly.
3. Give them time to process. After you’ve spoken to a child with Asperger’s, give them a few moments to respond.
While children with AS have the desire to fit in socially and have friends, they have difficulty making friends because of their lack of social awareness and skills. Many children with AS are at risk for developing mood disorders, such as anxiety or depression, and may require intervention to prevent or treat such conditions.
You may also like:
Activities for Autistic Children | Characteristics of Autism Asperger’s Syndrome