Parenting a child with Asperger syndrome

This is an excerpt from an article written by Lila Havens, originally published from content available on MyOptumHealth.com:

"Asperger syndrome is considered an autism-spectrum disorder. It's similar to autism, but less severe. Unlike many children with autism, children with Asperger talk at the expected age and usually have normal or even high intelligence.

As the parent of a child with Asperger, you want to know how to help your child. One key is to learn all you can about Asperger syndrome. By being well-informed, you'll help yourself and also be able to give the support your child needs to thrive.

Recognizing Asperger syndrome

Children with Asperger syndrome have poor social skills. They have trouble making friends because they talk at rather than to others. They aren't good at making eye contact, reading facial expressions or understanding how other people feel. They prefer sameness and may have rituals or routines that are important to them.

Physically, they are often clumsy. They may have poor handwriting or trouble catching a ball or riding a bike. Many are very sensitive to textures, light and noise. A scratchy tag in a shirt or the flickering of a fluorescent light may bring on a tantrum.

One of the hallmarks of this syndrome is a child's keen interest in one subject. Children with Asperger become experts in their chosen subject, and that's all they want to talk about. They may recite endless facts about New York subway schedules, dinosaurs or ancient Egyptian dynasties. They often sound like "little professors" because they use big words and have a formal way of speaking. Adults may be charmed by this, but other kids may think they're strange. As a result, they may be teased or bullied.

Many children with Asperger also have another problem, such as depression, anxiety or hyperactivity.

Living with Asperger syndrome

While kids with Asperger have many things in common, they are individuals, with their own gifts and shortcomings. Treatment can help your child make the most of his or her abilities and learn better ways to relate to others."

For the full article please visit Parenting a child with Asperger syndrome.