Asperger’s syndrome, is an autism spectrum disorder that affects language and behavioral development in children. Several years ago Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) is a group of conditions that involve delays in the development of many basic skills that vary in severity, communication delay and repetitive behaviors such as: Autistic Disorder, Asperger Disorder, Rett’s Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-not otherwise Specified.

Now more commonly known as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Some of the symptoms can be detected as early as infancy, but behavior characteristics can be detected as early as childhood. It can be somewhat challenging diagnosing a child with autism, that is why it is crucial that professionals have sufficient training and experience with Autism Spectrum Disorders(ASD). Children with Asperger’s syndrome generally have normal intelligence. Each student has their own unique characteristic of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).Near-normal language development, although they may develop problems communicating as they get older. Some students may appear to have no impediment grasping the concepts in an academic setting, while becoming extremely anxious when their schedule is changed. On the other hand, another student may face change without incident, while another has difficulty dealing with change.

Children with Asperger’s syndrome generally have difficulty interacting with others and often are awkward in social situations.Even though they do express a desire to participate socially, they tend to struggle with social interactions. This may be one of their biggest challenges, to be able to interact socially among others. They generally do not make friends easily. That is why children with Asperger’s syndrome disorder must be taught explicitly social skills and situations in order to function semi-well in this world. Due to their lack in social skills, they have difficulty initiating and maintaining conversation.Ingredients for successful social interactions include communication skills, social interest and awareness, self-regulation and coping skills, and leisure skills (Boswell ; Cox, 2004). It may be a good idea to consider targeting first these skills when taking into consideration the developmental level and age level of the individual.

Children with Asperger’s syndrome have eccentric or repetitive behaviors. The cause of this is due to sensitivity of an unexpected change in routine which can cause them to have anxiety and stress. Anxiety is a haracteristic well known and common on individuals with Asperger’s syndrome. This condition may develop odd, repetitive movements, such as hand wringing or finger twisting.

Providing a safe environment and avoiding surprises will prevent these kind of outbursts. A child with Asperger’s syndrome may develop rituals that he or she refuses to alter, such as getting dressed in a specific order. This is a common behavior amongst them. There currently is no cure for Asperger’s syndrome, but treatment may improve functioning and reduce undesirable behaviors.Treatment may include a combination of the following. The children can easily be distracted both internal and external stimuli.

There are currently specialized programs and program specialists within school districts that provide adequate education, evaluations, to assist children with Asperger’s syndrome. Education that is structured to meet the child’s unique educational needs. It is important that educators focus in teaching students with Asperger’s syndrome in the way they learn, instead of the way the teacher teaches.

This includes strategies for supporting positive behavior and decreasing problem behaviors. It is hard for the child, parent and at times for the teacher when other students do not understand what is Asperger’s syndrome disorder. This only makes it awkward for the other students not knowing what to expect, or what kind of reaction a child will have with this disability. Having a child with autism requires taking a proactive approach to learning about the condition and its treatment while working closely with others involved in your child’s care.A parents hands on participation in the learning environment of a child is very important, in the understanding what is being taught at school, to continue helping child at home. Participation and knowledge of a child’s capabilities and learning disadvantages will be beneficial to all parties involved, the student, teacher and parents. Ask your doctor or contact autism groups to find training about autism and how to manage symptoms.

Currently there is no cure for Asperger’s syndrome, but with early detection and treatment, the life of the child can be monitored to provide a better quality of life.Although, it will not be easy Understanding the condition and knowing what to expect is an important part of helping your child develop independence. Children having difficulty with many basic skills, problems communicating, difficulty interacting with others and having eccentric or repetitive behaviors are all symptoms that children deal with in a daily basis, making their lives difficult to understand. These difficulties are shown at school, home and in a social environment, making difficult for individuals with Asperger’s syndrome to interact socially.

ReferencesWebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise, Last Updated: April 12, 2010©2005-2013 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatmentFuture Horizons, Inc., 2005 Ellen Notbohm 2008 Carol Burmeister ; Sheri Wilkins, PH.D.