What You Need to Know about Asperger’s Syndrome (High-Functioning Autism)
You have been blessed by having a child with Asperger’s Syndrome in your class. Most days, he will appear to be just like everyone else but there are differences in the “Aspie” child that put him at risk for bullying, depression, meltdowns at home, and academic failure. You may not know that he struggles with learning and understanding abstract concepts. For this purpose, a comprehensive Individualized Educational Program (IEP) has been developed. Please read and keep this information handy throughout the year, as well as his IEP, so that you can help him grow and mature into a responsible young man.
Social Isolation
Every child wants to feel and be included. Aspies are no different but face a greater challenge as they do not know how to be social. Aspies avoid eye contact, talk about their favorite topics, which are computers and Star Wars, interrupt others, and cannot interpret social cues. Their lack of social know how puts them at risk for isolation by not knowing how to act appropriately but also means they are often the child that does not get invited to birthday parties or other events.
Inability to be a Teen
The Aspie’s lack of social skills leads into the Aspie’s inability to know how to be a teen. While some kids wear designer jeans, jackets, shoes, and belts, the Aspie is often stuck with what is comfortable—the same shirt, jeans, and sweatshirt every day. Most teenagers understand they must shower every day; parents of an Aspie child may spend 60 minutes coercing and bribing their child to take a shower every other day. While most teenagers worry about football and friends, the Aspie is hunkered down with Legos and independent play-acting.
School Challenges
Academic struggles are not the only thing Aspie students worry about in school. Aspies like their own space and do not like others invading their space unless they are invited. They also struggle with understanding how to complete assignments and what is expected. Clear expectations and laying out the rules clearly and concisely will let the Aspie know what you expect. If you don’t explain what you want or what you need, the Aspie student will not know. Communication is a challenge and they do not understand implications or ambiguity. In the Aspie’s world, their perception is their reality. They often play the role of the victim and everyone else is at fault.
Somatization, Depression and Acting Out
Aspies internalize their feelings. In fact, they internalize everything. Some Aspies will make themselves sick because they have to turn in a favorite art project and fear not getting it back. Behavior between school and home is relational. A perceived act of victimization can result in an hour long crying, screaming, throw yourself on the floor, and toss the chair across the room temper tantrum.
Some days, you will find him willful. Other days, you will think he is the sweetest boy. Most days, he will appear and act like other students. He has been blessed to have you as his teacher, educator, and mentor for this school year.
