I would like to share some important information and knowledge based on my experience with having a child with Asperger’s Syndrome.  The basic areas affected in these children are their social skills, communication, repetitive routines, understanding, rationalization and reasoning. My experience in raising my daughter has been quite a challenge, but with awareness of what we are dealing with, and understanding of how much and the kind of support that child needs, we can all help. Information and support are important to help these children in decreasing their feelings of worthlessness and to build their self-esteem.

I know that for me it has been very helpful every time our daughter does something small to give her the praise for doing a great job.

What follows is an article from a group called O.A.S.I.S.  This article was originally written as a guide for teachers but has been adapted as a guide for both parents and teachers on dealing with children with Asperger’s Syndrome.

We are Stephanie‘s parents. Our child has been diagnosed with Asperger‘s Syndrome (AS), which is a neurobiological disorder on the autistic spectrum. Children with AS may have difficulty using and understanding nonverbal behaviors and developing appropriate peer relationships, in part, because their interactions often lack spontaneous exchange. While they often have keen interests and skills in certain subjects, they also may have a great deal of difficulty with organization. AS children may appear to lack in empathy, have difficulty with sensory issues and very often strongly rely on routine.

Children with AS have many strengths. However, many of the behaviors you will see are NOT under his or her control, and they are not a result of malice or willful misbehavior. At times our child simply does not innately know how to appropriately respond.

Below are some behaviors you may see, either as a parent at home, or as teacher in the classroom, and some suggestions on ways to react to these behaviors.

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