Asperger's Syndrome: The Child Inside the Syndrome

The child with Asperger's Syndrome is just like any other child. On the inside, a child with Asperger's Syndrome wants to be loved, wants to learn, and wants to share the world with those around her. But Asperger's Syndrome makes this more difficult for that child than it is for other children. When we think about Asperger's, is important to remember the child inside the Asperger's syndrome.

You see, a child with Asperger's Syndrome doesn't want to misbehave. The child with Asperger's Syndrome is not trying to get on your nerves or to be defiant, any more than any other child. The child with Asperger's Syndrome wants you to be proud of them. They respond best when people in authority are both patient and calm with them. Like many other children, the child with Asperger's Syndrome often responds more to redirection than to criticism.

A child with Asperger's Syndrome follows directions better if instructions are given one at a time. Instructions should be short and simple. Instructions are also much easier to follow when they are repeated. The child with Asperger's Syndrome has difficulty recognizing similarities between settings, too. If you tell the child to act a certain way in one setting, you will have to tell the child again when you are in a similar setting.

The brain of a child with Asperger's Syndrome works differently than yours or mine. A child with Asperger's Syndrome might have a huge vocabulary but might have difficulty with some of the most basic concepts in school. Children with Asperger's Syndrome tend to be a visual learners, and will usually respond well to visual cues. Often, they will be slow in their responses. This doesn't mean that they don't understand, it just means they're having trouble pulling the right words out of their brains.

Structure is key for the child with Asperger's Syndrome. A regular routine will help child with Asperger's Syndrome have a easier day. Changing things can cause them to have severe overreactions. In addition, unstructured time creates a world of troublesome possibilities. The child with Asperger's Syndrome functions best when you give plenty of warning about changes before they have happened.

The child with Asperger's Syndrome can be especially sensitive to criticism. The child with Asperger's Syndrome has trouble ignoring teasing, and often doesn't understand jokes and sarcasm. They may not do well in groups. If you tell a child with Asperger's Syndrome to work things out with a sibling or a classmate, is likely they will have no idea how to go about it. You will probably have to help them, gently, and step by step. Finally, remember that the child inside the Asperger's Syndrome needs you your love, support, patience and understanding every day.