Because of their many strengths parents can became especially frustrated. We know the child is cognitively capable, so we ask ourselves, “Why can’t they just act like everyone else?” While this frustration is a common phenomenon, it is important to understand that children with Asperger’s would love to function the way their siblings and family do. They simply cannot figure out how to act “normally.” It’s our job as parents and educators to give them the tools to better adapt to society.
Diagnosis
The first step towards diagnosis is an assessment along with a developmental history and observation. Once the diagnosis has been established by a professional, different forms of treatment are available. As with most disorders that manifest themselves in childhood, studies show that Asperger’s Syndrome is best when diagnosed and treated early.
Help At Home
Prevent Problems Rather Than React:Many times, children with Asperger’s will engage in repetitive behavior. Instead of reacting to the problem when it occurs, it is extremely helpful to anticipate the problem and take steps to prevent it from occurring to begin with.
Environmental Controls
Keep the physical environment consistent. Certain places should be designated for certain activities. For instance, the bedroom or kitchen table can be allocated for “calm sitting” for homework whereas the backyard or park can be designated for “active play.”
Maintain a consistent relationship with your child in both word and action. Your child should know that the same behavior will elicit the same response from you – regardless of your mood. This will decrease their anxiety and provide them with structure in their relationship.
Create a visual of a daily routine that you review with your child. Posting this schedule and reviewing it can prompt your child to move out his or her rut.
If your child misinterprets a situation, using language to “reframe” the situation can provide your child with necessary tools to interpret it correctly in the future. Using “key words” can help the child reframe multiple situations. Some samples of key words that children with Asperger’s might find helpful are:
“Off the topic” – if a child’s response is not relevant to the discussion.
“Say one thing” – if a child is giving much more information than required for the question asked.
“In your head” – if a child says a statement that could be hurtful to others and is better kept to himself.
“Use your words” – encourages a child to use language rather than a physical reaction to frustration.
“Looking and listening” – promotes eye contact and attention.
With repetition, these key words can help children with Asperger’s react positively even to new situations.
The suggestions I make above are just some of the few remediations that are available for Asperger’s. In reality, each child comes with his own set of weaknesses and strengths. The first step is to understand what those strengths and weaknesses are – and then you can begin the process of helping your child become “visible” again.