Special Education &

Asperger’s Syndrome

ASPERGER’S SYNDROME

Asperger's syndrome is a developmental disorder that affects a person's ability to socialize and communicate effectively with others. On the outside a child with Asperger’s Syndrome doesn’t look different than any other child.

ASPERGER’S SYNDROME SYMPTOMS

Having one-sided conversations without noticing if the listener is listening.

Unusual non-verbal communication including lack of eye contact, very few facial expressions, and awkward body movements.

Obsession with specific and often unusual topics

Inability to understand, empathize or be sensitive to others' feelings

Having a hard time understanding non-literal phrases or humor

Tendency to discuss self rather than others

Speaking in a voice that is monotonous, rigid or unusually fast

Moving clumsily, with poor coordination

ASPERGER’S SYNDROME TREATMENT

Teach friendship skills appropriate with the child’s developmental stage

Some appropriate questions could include: • What do friends do?• What makes a good friend?• What makes you a good friend?• Who are your friends at school?• Why do we have friends?• Why is (name) your friend?

ASPERGER’S SYNDROME TREATMENT

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Learning social skills

Self-control of emotions

Obsessions

Repetitive behaviors

ASPERGER’S SYNDROME EDUCATION

Children with Asperger’s Syndrome tend to be high-functioning and many are placed in general education classrooms

ASPERGER’S SYNDROME SUPPORT

Many family members have found support groups to be a vital part of an individual’s treatment plan.

ASPERGER’S SYNDROME

Be patient and use repetition to help your child succeed!