Asperger Syndrome Children and Tantrums

Posted on June 6th, 2010

Children with Asperger’s Syndrome the world over share a common trait – meltdown – otherwise known as a tantrum.

The visible symptoms of meltdown are as varied as the Asperger children themselves, but every parent is able to describe their child’s meltdown behaviour in intricate detail.

Meltdowns can be short lived, or last as long as two hours. They can be as infrequent as once a month (often coinciding with the lunar cycle/full moon) or occur as frequently as 4-6 times a day.

Whatever the frequency and duration, an Asperger child having a meltdown is difficult for parents/carers/teachers to deal with.

Meltdown in Asperger children is triggered by a response to their environment. These responses can be caused by avoidance desire, anxiety or sensory overload. Triggers need to be recognised and identified.

So how do we deal with a meltdown? What should you do when meltdown occurs?

An adults’ (parents/carers/teachers) behaviour can influence a meltdown’s duration, so always check your response first.

1. Calm down

2. Quiet down

3. Slow down

4. Prioritise safety

5. Re-establish self-control in the child, then deal with the issue

1. Take 3 slow, deep breaths, and rather than dreading the meltdown that’s about to take place, assure yourself that you’ve survived meltdowns 1000 times before and will do so this time too.

2. Keep your speaking voice quiet and your tone neutrally pleasant. Don’t speak unnecessarily. Less is best. Don’t be “baited” into an argument. (Often Asperger children seem to “want” to fight. They know how to “push your buttons”, so don’t be side-tracked from the meltdown issue).

3. Slow down. Meltdown often occurs at the most inconvenient time e.g. rushing out the door to school. The extra pressure the fear of being late creates, adds to the stress of the situation. (Asperger children respond to referred mood and will pick up on your stress. This stress is then added to their own.) So forget the clock and focus on the situation. Make sure the significant people in your life know your priorities here. Let your boss know that your Asperger child has meltdowns that have the capacity to bring life to a standstill, and you may be late. Let your child’s teacher know that if your child is late due to a meltdown that it’s unavoidable, and your child shouldn’t be reprimanded for it.

4. Prioritise safety when your Asperger child is having a meltdown. Understand that they can be extremely impulsive and irrational at this time. Don’t presume that the safety rules they know will be utilized while they’re melting down. Just because your Asperger child knows not to go near the street when they are calm doesn’t mean they won’t run straight into 4 lanes of traffic when they are having a meltdown. If your Asperger child starts melting down when you’re driving in the car, pull over and stop. If your child tends to “flee” when melting down, don’t chase them. This just adds more danger to the situation. Tail them at a safe distance (maintain visual contact) if necessary.

5. When your Asperger child is calm and has regained self-control, he will often be exhausted. Keep that in mind as you work through the meltdown issue. Reinforce to your child the appropriate way to express their needs/requests.

Remember that all behaviour is a form of communication, so try to work out the ‘message’ your Asperger child is trying to convey with their meltdown, rather than responding and reacting to the behaviour displayed.

About The Author

Nelle Frances is the mother of a 15 year old with Asperger’s Syndrome, a Special Needs Educator and Author of the Ben and His Helmet series of books for Asperger children. She is also an active member of 5 Asperger’s Syndrome Support and Advocacy Groups. For more information and Support Strategies visit http://www.nellefrances.com.

Tags: Aspergers child tantrums, how to handle tantrums in children with aspergers symptoms
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Frustration and the Asperger’s Kid

Posted on April 20th, 2010

Does your Asperger’s kid suddenly become angry and distraught over something small like a missing toothbrush? Or a loose board on the porch? It may seem like they over-react to the small things that happen, but it is a fact that Asperger’s children have little emotional control and get frustrated easily. That’s where they need your help and the help of others qualified in the area of emotions.

So how does your child show their frustration? Do they withdraw to someplace they feel safe? Do they yell and cry? Do they throw things and hurt people? And what do you do when you child gets frustrated? Do you take it personally? Or do you jump in sooth them when they are on the brink of crying? Do you give them time alone to try to deal with it? Is it best to talk about the issue or let it go? Parents don’t want to spend a lot of time discussing the case of the missing toothbrush and how the child should have handled it when there may be more pressing issues in the household to discuss.

Children with Asperger’s Syndrome have a low toleration for frustration. It is understandable that the frustration comes from a lack of understanding of their own feelings. They are unable to identify and express what they are feeling so they lump all the ‘bad’ feelings together. The parents see the overflow of ‘bad’ feelings come out at once. It’s important that we don’t take them personally even when they seem as though they are directed at us. Aspergers’ kids want to tell what is on their mind and most of the time they don’t know how to say it properly or they misinterpreted their thoughts altogether.

So what can parents do to help these kids with these frustrations? If the child is exhibiting threatening behavior and seems unable to control it, then getting them to work with a professional is the best approach if they don’t already have one. Many times, a counselor can provide techniques or methods for the child to deal with their feelings. Also, a counselor can provide a parent with valuable insight and tools for helping the child deal with their feelings. There are also medications that a doctor can prescribe to help calm these outbursts and let the child think it through.

A child who is obviously frustrated but not particularly threatening or violent still needs help and parents can provide that through on the fly discussions. An older child can be reasoned with on what triggered the outburst and how they can deal with it the next time. It’s important that these discussion be held calmly and rationally. If the child feels accused or threatened themselves, then they will not be receptive to what the parents have to say and it may help to have a counselor facilitate these type of conversations.

The bottom line is if your child appears to have a low tolerance for frustration and it is happening more frequently, then they need help understanding what it happening to them. This kind of help can come from a number of places and the most important player is the parent. Don’t take it personally, rather understand they are literally brimming over with ‘bad’ emotions and don’t realize what they are doing.

Tags: Asperger's kid and frustration, Asperger's Syndrome Children, Frustrated Asperger's kid
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Understanding Aspergers and ADHD Medication

Posted on March 25th, 2010

Aspergers and ADHD medication have often been linked, but the more we begin to understand the unique challenges of Autism Spectrum Disorders, the more it becomes clear that treatment for the varying steps of the Autism spectrum, including Aspergers, needs to be much different than that used for ADHD.

In any discussion of Aspergers & ADHD, a line needs to be drawn to distinguish the two conditions. The difficulty in doing so is that both conditions do share some symptoms. The lack of concentration, hyperactivity, distractibility and impulsiveness which are characteristic of ADHD are often also present in children with Aspergers Syndrome. But here the similarities end.

As with most autistic children, those with Aspergers will also have other very
distinctive social development issues. An inability to maintain eye contact, lack of comprehension when it comes to using body language and other forms of social expression, making repetitive sounds or motions and intense focus on one subject are all part and parcel of life with Aspergers. For this reason, Aspergers and ADHD medication should not be directly linked, as most standard ADHD medication will be ineffective in Aspergers children.

While some use of antidepressants has been successful in treating Aspergers, generally the use of behavioral and social therapy is most effective. Despite the seemingly close connection between Aspergers & ADHD, they are, in fact, two completely different conditions and should be treated as such. Unlike more serious forms of autism, the Aspergers child usually has a high IQ and can be mainstreamed into a normal school setting if special care is taken to provide some individualized instruction.

While the use of stimulant based medications has been proven to effectively lessen the symptoms of ADHD, this doesn’t mean that an Aspergers child who also exhibits ADHD symptoms should be treated this way. In fact, the connection between Aspergers and ADHD medication is tentative at best. ADHD meds are not a “cure” for Aspergers nor should they be treated as such.

One area where Aspergers & ADHD are similar is their reaction to alternative treatments. Everything from music therapy to yoga has been used to help both Aspergers and ADHD children to focus and relax and control disruptive behavior. Also, homeopathic remedies have proven quite successful in treating both conditions. Made from a unique blend of herbs like Hyoscyamus, Arsen iod and Tuberculinum and other plant based substances, these medications specifically target the chemical and neurological imbalances which cause ADHD symptoms and have produced positive long term results.

While there is a tendency to link Aspergers and ADHD medication, it is the use of natural remedies which has proven to be most advantageous for both conditions. By using safe, gentle, natural ingredients, homeopathic remedies can ease ADHD symptoms without exposing the child to harsh side effects.

Though the word “Autism” can inspire frustration, confusion and even fear, there are successful methods of treatment, especially for higher functioning forms such as Aspergers Syndrome. A diagnosis of Aspergers does not have to be the end of the world. The important thing is understanding the differences between Aspergers and ADHD and finding the right course of treatment for your child, one that can help you both to breathe easier and enjoy life!

Another Recent Post on Asperger’s Syndrome:

My Yellow Apple: Journeys in Parenting Asperger’s Syndrome

Natalie Dalton: I am happily married to a great guy, Francis, and together we raise our beautiful children, Aiden, 5, and Margaret, 2. Together we are navigating a family life where Asperger’s Syndrome/Autism has a starring role!

Tags: asperger's syndrome, aspergers and ADHD medication
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Parents of Aspergers Children, Don’t Be Intimidated

Posted on February 15th, 2010

Parents of Aspergers Children, Don’t Be Intimidated by Medical and Educational Professionals

After raising children for sixteen years, I’ve learned to trust my instincts. In fact, one psychologist told me that I have a PhD in my children. In this particular case he was referring to my autistic son, who was five years old at the time.

He said, “You’ve been studying him for five years now. That’s how long it takes some psychologists to earn their PhD. You are an expert on your son. Don’t let anyone tell you different.”

Medical Personnel:

I wish I had this much confidence in myself when my middle son was an infant. I kept taking him in for his well baby check ups and complained about developmental delays. He was months behind his brother for smiling, babbling, crawling, walking, talking, etc.

I was intimidated into not looking for answers for three years by one simple comment from his doctor. “Oh, you had the perfect child first.” When my son was three and a half years old, I ventured to ask my own physician in the same family practice. She administered some developmental tests on the spot. Then she immediately handed me a referral to a children’s developmental clinic.

It turned out I was correct in my concern. My son received the diagnosis of Aspergers Syndrome from this clinic. Fortunately, my son was not adversely affected by the delay in a diagnosis and early interventions.

Educational Professionals:

When I took my son into preschool, the vice principal told me that my son was too young to receive a diagnosis of Aspergers Syndrome. When I requested my son be tested for speech and language disabilities, I was told that he had none. The Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) my son had at the beginning of preschool was withdrawn.

In kindergarten my son came home thirty-eight days in a row having had a wetting accident during class. I thought I had complained to everyone that something was wrong. Maybe I did and maybe I didn’t. All I know is after a meeting between my attorney and specialists and the school board’s vice superintendent, attorney and the school’s principal, my son was immediately moved to a different classroom and teacher. The wetting accidents stopped.

There was a discrepancy between the quality of work he was bringing home and what he was doing at home. I felt my son had a learning disability. The school did not. I went to the local learning disability advocates who confirmed that the school did not have to do anything more for my child. I hired an attorney and educational consultant who affirmed my position.

In the end, I did not continue with the services of the hired professionals. Once I had begun to trust in my own instincts, I began advocating on my own for my son. Eventually we did receive a new IEP for my son. He went from a child in the top two thirds of his class to earning straight ‘A’ report cards and being placed in the Honors program.

Corrin Howe

http://www.justbecausemypickletalks.blogspot.com

I’m a mother of a nine-year-old son diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome, ADHD and Anxiety Disorder. Although I don’t think what I do for him is beyond normal, most of the professionals we deal with suggest that I start sharing some of my ideas for helping my son.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Corrin_Howe

Is Asperger’s Syndrome Hereditary?

We need to do a lot more work, but it does look like there’s some very strong genetics to Asperger’s Syndrome and there is probably some connection to autism. Dr. Volkmar, M.D.: Fred Volkmar, M.D.

Tags: asperger's syndrome, aspergers symptoms, parents of aspergers children
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Just Diagnosed With Asperger’s Syndrome

Posted on February 8th, 2010

My Child Was Just Diagnosed With Asperger’s Syndrome – Where Did He or She Get It?

If you have recently received a diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome for one of your children, you may be asking yourself how this could be? You are certainly experiencing a lot of emotions right now, but your brain has also kicked into high gear as you search for an explanation. You want to know why? Where did it come from? Isn’t Asperger Syndrome an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Is it genetic? Is it due to a poor diet or childhood immunizations? Could our toxic environment be a contributor?

While there are many contributing factors (such as environmental toxins and dietary sensitivities) and scientists are still uncovering the mystery of ASDs, one often overlooked factor is that one or both parents probably have an Autism Spectrum Disorder or at least some of the traits. Since we did not start diagnosing Asperger Syndrome until 1994 here in the United States, there are many parents with the disorder who were not diagnosed as children. Now when one of their own children is diagnosed, and as the parents start learning more about the traits of autism, the dawning light of recognition begins. Many of the Asperger traits that they see in their children are very similar to the traits of the parents . . .and grandparents and other family members. Undeniably there is a strong genetic component to Asperger Syndrome.

Here is one example. Beverly waltzed into my office, her long full skirt swishing as she walked. She was wearing flip flops and a much-too-tight blouse that was not a match for her skirt. No matter, you don’t have to be a fashion plate to see a psychologist. I noticed that Beverly had smudged “coke bottle” glasses, betraying her near sightedness. Her blonde hair was her most attractive feature, especially because it was arranged in one of those contemporary mussed-up hairdos . . . or was it mussed because she didn’t comb it this morning? Nevertheless she presented a warm and friendly smile as she greeted me.

Beverly was already 20 minutes late for her appointment with me and yet she didn’t seem to realize it. She chatted amiably about the weather, while she arranged herself in the armchair, and placed her extra large carryall at her feet. She rummaged through her bag looking for something . . .her cell phone I think since it began making noise just as she sat down. She apologized profusely for the ringing cell phone, pulled it out of her bag, checked who the call was from, then smiled at me . . . and took the call. She chatted aimlessly with the caller and only after several minutes did it occur to her to tell the caller she was in an appointment with me. Again she apologized and we started our session, with about 15 minutes left of the therapy hour.

Beverly has two children on the Spectrum and her husband has been formally diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome. Yet Beverly has no idea she has Asperger Syndrome too. She jokes that she is like Einstein and can’t stand to wear socks, even in the winter. She is anxious most of the time. She misjudges time. She has trouble reading facial expressions. But she is so bright and well educated that until her children were diagnosed she never saw the symptoms in herself.

Then there is George. George is a tense and driven entrepreneur. He is highly successful in business. In fact he was a multi-millionaire before he turned 40. George has two children, all of whom have special needs. One has ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and dyslexia. The other has Asperger Syndrome. Yet George denies that he has any traits of the Autism Spectrum. He works 24/7, leaving all of the childcare to his wife. Fortunately she can hire private tutors and household help or she would not be able to keep up with her children’s special needs.

Liza, George’s wife tells me, “I love my husband but he wears me out. He works non-stop and expects me to take care of everything else. He is willing to pay for private schools for the children, but never once has he come to a school conference. He won’t learn about the children’s special needs and as the kids get older I worry about his temper. As it is he seems kind of clueless about the kids. For example, when the kids get tired of waiting for Dad to get home for dinner, they can have meltdowns. George insists that we wait dinner on him but sometimes he doesn’t walk in until 10:00 pm or later. Then he gets angry that we didn’t wait for him. I fed the kids and put them to bed long ago to avoid their tantrums. Now I have to listen to his! Sometimes it is a nightmare.”

Both Beverly and George have symptoms of Asperger Syndrome, which is a type of autism that is considered very high functioning. They are bright, well-educated people, so they are very successful at careers or other vocations. But when it comes to interpersonal relating, such as showing up on time . . . or recognizing the needs of children to eat at a regular hour. . . or the needs of a spouse for emotional support . . . well they have not acquired these skills. These types of skills are the very ones their children struggle with also. A hallmark of Asperger Syndrome is a lack of social radar that leads both children and adults with AS to miss the social reciprocity that is so essential to making relationships work.

A diagnosis of  Asperger Syndrome for your child is the beginning of a major transformation for a family. Now at least you have a direction to start exploring for some answers. Hopefully you will find a team of professionals to help you reconstruct a medical, psychological and educational plan for your child. But all of your hard work will go up in smoke if you do not come to terms with the fact that most likely one or both parents are on the Autism Spectrum too. How can you parent effectively if you have not resolved the confusion and misdirection from your own undiagnosed childhood? It’s true for all parents, not just AS parents that to be an effective and loving parent, you have to clean up your own bad habits and insecurities. If our goal as parents is to raise children with strong self-esteem, which leads to a “Can do” attitude in adult life, then we need to take stock of our own behaviors first.

Kathy J. Marshack, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist is the author of the book “Life with a partner or spouse with Asperger Syndrome: GOING OVER THE EDGE?” (2009), available on Amazon.com. Dr. Marshack practices in Portland/Vancouver and can be reached at 503-222-6678, info@kmarshack.com or http://www.kmarshack.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Kathy_Marshack

More articles on Asperger’s Syndrome:

Opposing Views: Asperger’s Syndrome – How to Deal With Meltdowns

Asperger’s Syndrome – How to Deal With Meltdowns on Opposing Views.

Raising Kids with Asperger’s Syndrome – Blind Leading the Blind …

Asperger Syndrome. (It doesn’t officially have an apostrophe in there, but so many people use it that I think it’s now accepted colloquially as Asperger’s Syndrome.) He’s on the autism spectrum, albeit the high functioning end.

Tags: dealing with asperger symptoms, Diagnosing Asperger's symptoms
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Vacationing With Asperger’s Syndrome

Posted on February 5th, 2010

Vacationing With Asperger’s Syndrome–Suggestions For Making it a Pleasant Experience For Everyone

If you have someone in your house with Asperger’s Syndrome or autism, then you know vacations can be very stressful. People with this diagnosis don’t like change and do like routine and familiar surroundings. For years it was a miserable experience to go on a family vacation. So miserable we wondered why we were putting ourselves through the torture. However, we have two “typical” children who needed to have the experiences their brother avoids. Through trial, error and education, we came up with solutions which make vacations an enjoyable experience for everyone. These solutions may not work for everyone, but give some a try. Keep what works and leave the rest on the coffee table to collect dust.

For our family we stumbled upon a timeshare program. No matter where we go in a timeshare network, our son can be assured of familiar things in each setting. The units are basically laid out, furnished and stocked the same. He knows he’ll have a double bed to himself in a room he’ll share with his younger sister. He knows he’ll have a television in his room and a bathroom connected to his room. He knows his clean clothes will be in the drawer three from the top and his dirty clothes will go in the bottom drawer. He knows his PS2 or Wii will be compatible with the entertainment center in the living room. If timeshares are not an option for you, consider using the same hotel chain, campgrounds, friend’s and or family locations from vacation to vacation.

Next, we’ve step up “routines” or traditions for our vacations. For example, he knows during Spring Break we will go to the timeshare complex near the same amusement park. We will ride the same rides, eat the same foods and he will carry the same park map. He knows during the stay his dad will take him and his sister to the indoor pool at least once a day and one night we’ll go to the same all-you-can-eat buffet. We’ve given up the Christmas with the extended family in favor of a week at another favorite timeshare location. Family and friends are free to come visit us for the day, the child who is easily overstimulated knows at the end of the day, he’ll have his much needed time, space and routine.

While it is a major pain and causes us to pack extra items, we also make sure we make the “vacation house” feel like home. He has sensory issues, so we bring the mini-trampoline with us wherever we go. Otherwise he’s jumping on the furniture or running back and forth in the unit. We carry the bedtime bible, the pillow, the blanket and the stuffed animal. We also carry the “survival backpack” which I wrote about in a separate article.

Since the timeshare units are fully furnished apartments, I plan to make most of the meals. I either bring all the groceries with me for a week of meals, or I shop immediately after checking in. I make sure all the meals are family favorites and include the foods he’ll eat. I also keep his special cup on hand.

Finally, when he was younger, it was helpful to show him pictures of the place we were going, show him the map of how we were getting there, and a schedule of what he could expect to do each day. I find he doesn’t need this as much now that he’s older. It might be because we are usually going to the same places we’ve been before. More recently I’ve found I need to create and post a schedule of the weekly and daily activities on the timeshare unit refrigerator. I also bring and post the current behavior plan, rewards and consequences. In this case, I print these ahead of time and keep refrigerator magnets in my “timeshare” box.

Of course, every child and family is different, so all of these ideas may not work for you. However, if some do, then you’ll find vacation a little less stressful and more relaxing. I’m curious to know if this helped you. Please feel free to comment and let me know. Or to give you some of your own tips.

Corrin Howe

http://www.justbecausemypickletalks.blogspot.com

I’m a mother of a nine-year-old son diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome, ADHD and Anxiety Disorder. Although I don’t think what I do for him is beyond normal, most of the professionals we deal with suggest that I start sharing some of my ideas for helping my son.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Corrin_Howe

Additional Article:

Teaching Children with Asperger’s Syndrome

This workshop, presented by Sharon Jurman, will focus on the unique needs, challenges and rewards of teaching children with Aspergers Disorder in an integrated or self contained classroom.

Tags: aspergers symptoms and vactioning with a child, vacationing with asperger's syndrome children
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Asperger’s Syndrome – How Can I Help My Child

Posted on February 2nd, 2010

Asperger’s syndrome is a neurological disorder. That means that it is something you are born with. You cannot catch Aspergers, nor can you "cure" it. Aspergers kids often have challenges in the communications area. An "Aspie" as someone with Aspergers is often referred, will tend to have a very literal interpretation of language. A major reason for an Aspie’s difficulties with social functioning is the lack of understanding of subtle social cues and patterns of speech, such as sarcasm.

PHYSICAL STRUCTURE OF THE BRAIN

The frontal lobe of the brain affects several processes such as speech, expressive language, emotion, reaction, habits, and judgment. The imaging that has been done suggests that in folks with Aspergers this area of the brain grows and develops much more slowly while other areas grow more rapidly. What you often get is a gifted student that does not know how to deal with people.

New studies that have been released over the past year have begun to explain what is not working correctly. We learn by the process of copying each other. We say things other people we know say. We eat things other people we know eat. We do things that other people we know do. We learn from them.

"MIRROR" NEURONS MAY BE A CAUSE

In the brain we have neurons. Little chemical signals that control what the brain does. These ones have been labeled "mirror" neurons because they make your brain think you are actually doing what you are watching someone else do. People with Autistic spectrums do not produce these neurons when they see someone else doing things. Therefore, if they see someone making a movement with their face and they don’t know what it means, they are not going to repeat the seemingly useless gesture at the right time, if at all. After a while they might stop paying attention to the movement at all.

SUBTLE VOICE CHANGES ARE MISSED

Sarcasm is cue based. The words are the same but the voice changes. This would be considered a subtle cue and these are often missed. Analogies are not understood unless the connection is understood.

But there is hope. Specific training can often be highly effective in helping Aspergers children learn the skills needed.

HOW TO TEACH ASPERGERS KIDS TO UNDERSTAND THESE SUBTLE CLUES

Basically, Aspergers is treated by training the child how the world outside of their mind works. Because they have trouble recognizing that other people are having different thoughts than them, they have to be taught this. Once they have learned that, they can be trained to respond to other people in a way that will help them get what they need. Then they will be taught about relationships and the give and take of conversations and friendships.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_Kendall

Additional Posts on Asperger’s Syndrome:

Aspergers and Sensory Problems

How to cope with my son with Aspergers‘ sensory problems? Answer. Having a child with sensory integration issues can be a challenge for a parent. 

Holistic Nutrition & Neurology: Understanding Food Allergies …

This blog serves as a forum for discussing the holistic approach to addressing a wide range of neurological disorders including Autism, Aspergers, AD/HD, Tourette’s, Parkinson’s.

Tags: asperger's syndrome, aspergers symptoms, Aspergers's syndrome
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Medication For Aspergers?

Posted on January 31st, 2010

If you do any research on Aspergers Syndrome you will find there is no one medication that will help Aspergers. Many children still suffer from hyperactivity (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, anxiety and more due to Aspergers Syndrome. There are many medications out that specifically target those symptoms. There is a variety of websites that discuss medications for specific symptoms that can be taken and monitored by your doctor.

Our daughter was diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome. She was already on Concerta for an ADHD diagnosis she had around first grade. Although it might not actually be ADHD but a symptom of Aspergers Syndrome our doctor has left her on this medication. Our biggest concern is since Concerta (and many other ADHD medications) is a controlled substance and we didn’t want her taking any more then she could possibly need to function. Our doctor tried lowering her dosage, but we immediately saw a drop in her ability to focus, function, and an increase in conflicts with her family members. We were put back on her original dosage of Concerta. Being a Pharmacologist as well as a Neurologist our doctor has seen many different drugs and combinations work for Aspergers children, but it is a matter of trying things to see what works for this specific child.

Our doctor asked if we would be willing to try Prozac. He explained he had seen results in Aspergers children on Prozac because it targets anxiety, obsessions, and depression (even if they don’t exhibit it doesn’t mean it isn’t there). His hope was if the Prozac worked to help with specific areas we could the reduce her Concerta. We started on a small dosage of Prozac and slowly built up. Of course we got all the information about side effects and what to watch for.

We visited each week to discuss any changes. We go almost all the way to the maximum dosage for her, and yet there was absolutely no change or effect on her. We gradually reduced the dosage and took her off of Prozac. The interesting note from the doctor was the majority of people on Prozac react either positive or negative to the drug. Only about 1% of people have absolutely no reaction what so ever. Well, that is my daughter for you.

With Prozac out of the way, our doctor still was concerned about the high dosage of Concerta that was required to help her stay where she could function and focus. Her weight and size has remained very small for her age. She also has trouble sleeping. Both are symptoms of a controlled substance like Concerta. He decided to try reducing her Concerta again but supplementing it with Stratera (non-stimulant drug). This has actually worked and allowed her to maintain the level of focus and function she needs. By reducing the Concerta she may regain her appetite and sleep better at night.

http://www.aspergerssyndrome.today.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Danielle_Martinez

Related Information:

Aspergers – A Family’s Story: New Medication for Harrison-Update 2

Since the last update on Harrison’s medication change to Strattera things have gone a bit haywire to say the least. Once Harrison was only taking Strattera his behavior started to deteriorate.

What you need to know about Aspergers medication

Hi there and welcome to this week’s blog article … Question Where can I find the right medication to help his Asperger’s, not cure.

 Mail this post

Tags: aspergers medication, medication for aspergers, medication for aspergers symptoms
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3 Tips on Stopping Aspergers Temper Tantrums

Posted on January 29th, 2010

Do you feel exhausted from toddler Aspergers Temper Tantrums? Effective parenting, whether a child has asperger syndrome or not, is learning that you are in control, not the child. This is not a popularity contest. You are not there to wait on your child and indulge her every whim. Buying her every toy she wants isn’t going to make her any happier than if you say no. There is no easy way out of this  parenting experience . Sometimes you just have to dig in and let the tantrum roar.

Temper Tantrums and Asperger

A temper tantrum is very straightforward. A child does not get his or her own way and, as grandma would say, “pitches a fit.” This is not to discount the temper tantrum. They are not fun for anyone.

Tips on stopping aspergers temper tantrums

1. Speak with your kid

Asperger’s sufferers don’t really have the knowledge to solve when their behaviors are improper. Talk to your kid about his meltdowns when he is calm and relaxed. This will probably not be until the child is seven or eight years old. Then, tell him that sometimes he does things that are not appropriate. Have him talk to you about a sign you can give him to let him known when this happens.

When my son begins to experience a meltdown, he and I have agreed that I can let him know by laying my hand on his shoulder and saying, “Please stay calm.” This works fantastically for me but may not work for others. So, you have to learn by trail and error.

2. Be Patient

All you can do is be patient with your child while he is having a meltdown, though they are emotionally exhausting for you as well as he. Never punish him for experiencing a meltdown.

3. Asperger’s children don’t like surprises and some don’t like to be touched.

Never rush to your child and give him a hug. If you want to hug him, tell him exactly what you are going to do. A surprise hug can send him into an even worse meltdown than he is already experiencing.

In conclusion about aspergers temper tantrums:

If you feel like you are being manipulated by a tantrum, you are right. You are. A tantrum is nothing more than a power play by a person not mature enough to play a subtle game of internal politics.

To all of you PARENTS feeling HOPELESS, MISERABLE and EMBARRASSED about your child- Help for Asperger

Asperger Syndrome Details – Avoid The # 1 One Biggest Mistake That Parents Make When The Asperger Kid Misbehaves

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karel_Micek

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Nurturing Your Asperger’s Child

Posted on January 27th, 2010

Ready for a “Meat and Potatoes” book on  raising an Aspergers Child ? No fluff here – just the stuff you really need.

Written by a Christian mom of two Aspergers Children, Phyllis Wheeler really knows – first hand – what works, and what doesn’t work for our kids. She’s been where we are now – from the discovery that our child is different to raising and teaching them through adult hood.

This author isn’t a Dr telling us what “we should be doing”. Nor is she just beginning out on the journey with an Aspergers Child. She’s been there and done that! She’s got Experience and experience is the BEST teacher. She shares real examples with real solutions – what a breath of fresh air!

This book gives you the nuts and bolts of HOW to work with your child. From using a Rubber Chicken (communication skills) to implementing a truly workable point system that will create structure and actually mean something to your Aspie – this book is one of those irreplaceable books.

I first bought this book years and years ago, read through it and then let my hubby read it. This book made the difference. It gave my husband insight to what it meant to be an Aspie, how Aspie’s react to their environment and gave us both hope that we could do this: we could parent a very special child called an Aspergers Child.

Just last month, someone asked me something about an Aspie child, and I dug out my book, once again, and found the answer. It’s not just a good read, it’s a great resource book. You’ll want this book on the “easy access” book shelf, cause you’ll be going back to it often.

You can visit my home on the web for more info on getting your hands on this book – it’s a must have for any Aspie Parent! http://home.maggiemccormick.com/index.html (3rd block down on the right hand side)

Maggie McCormick is married to her best friend Dave. Their son has Aspergers/ADHD/ODD and their daughter is mildly ADHD. They have been homeschooling for over six years and have a Support Site for Special Needs Families.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maggie_McCormick

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A Parent’s Introduction to Aspergers Syndrome

Posted on January 3rd, 2010

By Judson Greenman

Aspergers Syndrome (AS) is in the category of developmental disorders of the Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) that is under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders or PDD. It is different from Autism because there is not a specific delay of language or cognitive development, but does share the clumsiness (tripping, bumping, dropping things, etc.) aspects, although these are not particular to the diagnosis.

Why call it Aspergers? It is named after Hans Asperger who, in 1944, described children in his pediatric practice who lacked nonverbal communication skills, were non-empathetic with their peers, and were physically clumsy. It is sometimes referred to as a high functioning autism.

Treatment Aspergers Syndrome is treated mainly through behavioral therapy that is designed to work on communication skills, social skills, coping mechanisms, and helping with obsessions and repetitive routines. Most people with AS learn to cope with their differences, but may need support and encouragement to maintain their independence.

A typical treatment program for a child with Aspergers Syndrome includes:

    * The training of social skills for more effective interpersonal interactions
    * Cognitive behavioral therapy to improve stress management relating to anxiety or explosive emotions, and to cut back on obsessive interests and repetitive routines
    * Medication, for coexisting conditions such as depression and anxiety
    * Occupational or physical therapy to assist with poor sensory integration and motor coordination
    * Social communication intervention, which is specialized speech therapy to help with the pragmatics of the give and take of normal conversation
    * The training and support of parents, particularly in behavioral techniques to use in the home

Kids with Aspergers don’t usually share the withdrawn isolation of children with autism and will openly, but often very awkwardly, approach and engage others in social situation. However, their inability see things through others eyes, and the tendency to go overboard going on and on about their latest obsession, makes them appear selfish, uncaring and insensitive toward other people. This is not necessarily true, they just don’t realize how they are perceived or that other people have different interests and feelings than they do.

Many of the children with Aspergers will actually memorize reactions in specific social situations, and recite definitions or examples of emotion, but have a very hard time acting on any of that knowledge in a real situation. Or they will use a rigid application of the specific social rules they have memorized. This can come across as forced eye contact, or the plastered on smile, or laughing at the wrong time. They want friends and do seek out social contact, but over the years their failures in these situations can be devastating.

Kids with Aspergers will sometimes develop very focused and intense interest in something or some activity, that will completely dominate their time and their life, almost to the exclusion of everything else, and they will try to draw whoever they can into the same interest. This is usually seen as normal childhood interest and behavior at first, until the obsessive qualities become apparent and problems relating to anything or anyone else starts happening.

Diagnosis The diagnosis uses the identification of the stereotypical and repetitive behaviors as a central part of how it is diagnosed, but confirmation is done by ruling out anything else that can cause the same symptoms. The motor behaviors that are observed are things like the hand flapping or twisting, complex whole body movements and walking on tip toes, repeating the same word or sound over and over again are all typical repetitive behaviors of AS.

Other Issues Your child may display symptoms that aren’t a part of an Aspergers Syndrome diagnosis, but still affect the child and your whole family. They may have perception difficulties, and problems with fine or gross motor skills, handling emotions, and difficulty sleeping. Many kids on the spectrum (Autism Spectrum) have trouble with SI, or Sensory Integration, and can be overly sensitive or under sensitive to sound light, touch, texture, taste, smell, pain, temperature and other things that stimulate the senses. It may feel soft and nice to you, but to them, it can be actually painful.

Children with Aspergers are more likely to have sleep problems, including difficulty in falling asleep, waking up often at night, and early morning awakenings. Aspergers is also associated with alexithymia, which means having problems identifying and describing ones emotions. My daughter certainly has emotions and feelings, but she has no idea how to describe them or even what they are, or why they are there. Very frustrating.

Special Education Children with AS may require special education services because of their social and behavioral difficulties, although many attend regular education classes. Teens and tween with Aspergers may have difficulty with self-care, organization and disturbances in social and romantic relationship. They are usually very smart, but the inability to properly express and the awkwardness of social contact keep many from leaving home as adults, although some gain independence in work and domicile, even marrying and raising a family. Teen and preteen years are hard enough on kids without social difficulties, but can be very traumatic for a kid dealing with Aspergers.

Coexisting Conditions Anxiety with AS is very common, and is usually centered on change or transition. That is why a consistent schedule is so important. Anxiety and stress during social situations is inevitable because of the constantly changing nature of humans and relationships and situations, there isn’t a single right thing to do in every situation. Stress and anxiety will show up usually as a behavior, such as withdrawal, an obsession, hyperactivity, or even aggressive or oppositional behavior.

Depression, and other mood disorders, can be the end result of the constant stress and frustration of failing to properly socialize and make friends. Medication and behavior therapy can be used to deal with co-existing problems such as anxiety, depression, inattention, obsessive compulsion, and aggression.

Getting the family involved by helping them to understand what is going on with their child or brother or sister, will have a big impact on the child’s future. It will also help with being able to deal with everything that is involved in dealing with a child with Aspergers Syndrome and bring some semblance of normalcy back to the family. Getting help early and involving the whole family as a built in support system has the best effect on long term outcomes for a child with Aspergers Syndrome.

Judson Greenman, advocate and father of four very special girls started these websites as a way of sharing the joys and challenges of Raising Special Kids – from one parent to another. See it all at http://www.raising-special-kids.com and http://www.anieleirose.org

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judson_Greenman

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Contact Us

Posted on January 2nd, 2010

If you have any questions regarding the content in this website, about the products that are mentioned, or just any questions at all don’t hesitate to contact me at the following address. I’d also love to hear any feedback on the site if you’ve found it helpful or have some ideas about how I can improve the site in some way.

Please contact me at  Bob[AT]aspergerssymtoms.net (insert @ symbol in place of [AT])

I will reply to all messages as soon as possible.
Bob Freer

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About Us

Posted on January 2nd, 2010

AspergersSymptoms.net is dedicated to providing quality information on the subject of Asperger Syndrome.

Here you will find helpful reviews, informative information and tips and much more. This site is in the format of a ‘weblog’ so  that you can check back here frequently to see new updates to the information found here.

You can navigate through the site by using the menus on the sides of the page. Also don’t hesitate to follow the links you see in bold throughout each post to learn more about the product being spoken about.

I hope you find the information I provide valuable and helpful.

All the best,

Bob Freer

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Privacy Policy

Posted on January 2nd, 2010

Our Commitment To Your Privacy

Your privacy is important to us. To better protect your privacy we provide this notice explaining our online information practices and the choices you can make about the way your information is collected and used. To make this notice easy to find, we make it available on our homepage and at every point where personally identifiable information may be requested.

Our Commitment To Data Security

To prevent unauthorized access, maintain data accuracy, and ensure the correct use of information, we have put in place appropriate physical, electronic, and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect online.

Our Commitment To Children’s Privacy

Protecting the privacy of the very young is especially important. For that reason, we never collect or maintain information at our website from those we actually know are under 18, and no part of our website is structured to attract anyone under 18. Under our Terms of Service, children under 18 are no allowed to access our service.

Collection of Personal Information

On visiting this site, the IP address used to access the site will be logged along with the dates and times of access. This information is purely used to analyse trends, administer the site, track user’s movement, and gather broad demographic information for aggregate use. Importantly, IP addresses are not linked to personally identifiable information.

Links to third party websites

We have included links on this site for your reference. We are not responsible for the privacy policies on these websites.

lterations to this Privacy Statement

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Adult Asperger’s Syndrome Symptoms

Posted on January 1st, 2010

Are you looking for Adult Asperger’s Syndrome Symptoms?

Have you always felt like you are different from everyone else around you? The odd one out, never able to fit in? Have you always wondered why you could never relate to your peers? Did you have trouble making conversation when it seemed everyone else was laughing and carrying about so easily?

Did you always want friends, but were never able to make them? Or maybe you never wanted friends and other people thought this was weird? Does being around lots of people make you nervous, do loud noises make you jump, do certain smells make you want to make a hasty retreat to the nearest exit?

Asperger symptoms in adults can stabilize over time and this provides them with opportunities to improve their social skills and behavior.

Asperger syndrome in adults has some common characteristics such as:

- Lack of managing appropriate social conduct

- High intelligence

- Anger management problems

- Controlling feelings such as depression, fear or anxiety

- Lack of empathy

- Inability to listen to others

- Inflexible thinking

- Repetitive routines provides feelings of security

- Stress when their routine suddenly changes

- Inability to think in abstract ways

- Specialised fields of interest

- Visual thinking

Depression and Anxiety in Adults Aspergers:

Aspergers in adults are prone for depression due to a much higher level of stress and anxiety.

Research has shown that the rate of anxiety symptoms in children or adults with Asperger Syndrome is much higher then average.

There are some common factors that could cause feelings of anxiety:

- Stress at work or in school

- Stress in a personal relationship such as marriage

- Financial stress

- Stress from an emotional trauma such as the death of a loved one

- Stress from a serious medical illness

- Side effects of medication

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Differences Between Autism & Aspergers

Posted on December 15th, 2009

Autistic Disorder or Autism is a developmental disability that has a crucial impact on the normal development of the brain. It affects the cognitive portions that are significant for social integration and everyday living skills. People who suffer with Autism have deficits in the areas of social interactions and communication skills.

Children and adults alike who are diagnosed with Autism typically have difficulty with normal verbal or non-verbal communication such as eye-to-eye contact, facial expressions, body postures and general gestures associated with simple interactions.

Basically, normal peer relationships are diminished due to the lack of social skills. People with Autism tend to migrate toward exclusive activities. Unfortunately, this disease also affects self-help daily living skills. It affects toileting, feeding, dressing and/or brushing teeth, etc. Moreover, one person with Autism may experience very different symptoms and behaviors than the next.

Due to this broad range of symptoms, Autism has been called the "Spectrum" Disorder. Specifically, a person that is suffering with mild autistic symptoms is at one end of the spectrum. A person with severe autistic symptoms is at the other end of the spectrum. Autism is now often referred to as the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). One of the conditions of ASD is the Asperger’s Syndrome.

Asperger’s Syndrome is a form of the Autistic Disorder where people have relatively fewer developmental delays. Asperger’s Syndrome is actually said to be hereditary by researchers as it has been simultaneously diagnosed with depression and bipolar diseases. Asperger’s Syndrome is applied to identify the mildest and highest functioning end of Autism spectrum. It is a high functioning form of Autism. Therefore, it is at the mild spectrum of Autism. There is no prescribed regimen of treatment for this disease; however adults may live productive, independent lives.

Three basic aspects of development are affected by Aspersers. They are the use of language for communicative purposes and certain behaviors with stylistic characteristics, social relatedness and social skills, and a limited, but intense range of interest.

Interestingly enough, the language is lucid before age four. Although speech is sometimes repetitive, the grammar is usually very good. Their voices tend to be flat and emotionless. Individuals with Aspergers are obsessed with complex topics and are often described as eccentric. Ironically, they are in the above-average range in verbal agility, yet many have dyslexia, writing problems as well as difficulty with mathematics. The Autism Asperger individual is socially aware, however displays inappropriate reciprocal interaction. Their movements may be clumsy or awkward and they present odd forms of self-stimulatory behavior.

The main characteristic of Aspergers Syndrome that makes its children unique and fascinating is their peculiar areas of "special interest". This is very different from typical Autism in that those children’s interests are more likely to be objects or parts of objects.

The Asperger’s Syndrome children are fascinated with the intellectual dynamics of subjects. Even prior to attending school, these children will display an obsessive interest in areas such as math, science, reading or even some aspect of history or geography.

Another major characteristic that identifies Autism Aspergers from the typical Autism is the socialization deficit. In most cases, children with AS express a desire to fit in socially. Typical Autism victims suggest complete exclusion and seclusion. In fact, AS individuals tend to become frustrated because they aren’t able to interact appropriately.

Lastly, the use of language skills is can be used to determine if a child should be diagnosed with the Autistic Disorder or Asperger’s Syndrome. AS children have language skills that are very strong and tends to be very concrete. AS children have difficulty dealing with humor; tendency not to get jokes or laughing at odd times because they have difficulty with give or take with conversations, since their conversations tend to be self-oriented. Thus, these are differences that identify each disease as separate afflictions as they are very difficult to diagnose.

Author: Jon Arnold

For more insights and additional information about Autism and Aspergers please visit our web site at http://www.autism-explained.com

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Asperger’s Diagnosis

Posted on February 25th, 2009

Asperger’s Syndrome Diagnosis – Should I Tell My Child?

 by: Nelle Frances
 

To tell or not tell your child or others of their diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome? It’s really a personal decision that has pros and cons on either side. Some parents may struggle with telling a 3 year old they have Asperger’s Syndrome, fearing they may not understand; that it could frighten them.

While saying directly ‘The doctor says you have Asperger’s Syndrome,’ may be unnecessary, talking about the characteristics of Autistic Spectrum Disorder in a way the child can relate to is vital in helping the child towards self-acceptance as they mature.

Being open about your child’s different way of thinking and processing, and connecting those traits to Asperger’s Syndrome characteristics is the key to success in helping your child towards self-acceptance. The earlier they become comfortable with Asperger’s Syndrome ‘shop-talk’ the easier it will be when they are pre-teen and adolescent age. Children with Asperger’s Syndrome need to be able to focus on their strengths more than ever at this age when their social-skill deficits can seem more prominent.

Remembering though that people on the Autistic Spectrum do not always ‘connect the dots’ in the correct order, it may be necessary at some point to say ‘You have Asperger’s Syndrome’ for clarification.

So should you tell your child’s part-time employer about Asperger’s Syndrome…and if so, when?

When they are applying for a job? When they get the job? Or never?

This also comes down to personal choice. However, sometimes it can be helpful to have an employers support contributing to the success of your child’s employment experience.Our son doesn’t like to mention it when he’s applying for a position or when he initially begins work. He doesn’t want it to influence the employers’ decision to hire him, one way or another.

Then he doesn’t like to tell them of his Asperger’s Syndrome too soon, because he doesn’t want to ‘freak them out’. But ultimately he likes to tell them of his diagnosis, and explain to them what that means, because he feels like he’s hiding a secret if he doesn’t. As he says, ‘It’s a part of me, and they can’t know who I really am unless they know of my AS.’ (Sometimes I swear he’s a 44 year old inside a 14 year olds body!)

So far we’ve been very fortunate in the employer’s who have given our son a job. They’ve been very understanding, and have helped by finding out about Asperger’s Syndrome, and matching the strengths of Asperger’s Symdrome with the duties/tasks assigned to him. They’ve praised his work ethic, his efficiency, his enthusiasm and manners. They’ve been understanding and compassionate when his anxiety or depression has caused him to miss work, and not held it against him the next time he’s there. Just as someone may miss work due to asthma, or the flu they understand that depression/anxiety is part of Asperger’s Syndrome.

The members of our family have reached the stage where telling about Asperger’s Syndrome is just like saying ‘my eyes are blue’ – a comment that helps the listener come to know you (or your son or brother) a little better. After all, life is a never-ending quest to make connections with others, whether fleeting or lasting!

About The Author

Nelle Frances is the mother of a 15 year old with Asperger’s Syndrome, a Special Needs Educator and Author of the Ben and His Helmet series of books for Asperger children. She is also an active member of 5 Asperger’s Syndrome Support and Advocacy Groups. For more information and Support Strategies visit www.nellefrances.com.

Recent Posts:

Life with Aspergers

When should I tell my son about his diagnosis?

Tara’s view of the world: Aiden

This is the "official" diagnosis….  

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Asperger’s Disease in the Classroom

Posted on February 19th, 2009

Introduction

I am a teacher at a Christian school for children with special needs. My son Nicholas, who has Asperger’s Syndrome (AS), is a student at this school. What I offer here are my own views and observations of Asperger Syndrome as I have dealt with it in my own son and in several of my students. I do not offer this as medical advice or as a clinical or scientific study. These are simply things I have learned through my own research and observation that I hope will be beneficial to my readers.

In the classroom

Like any child, children with Asperger Syndrome bring a unique set of problems and benefits to the classroom. Several key characteristics of the AS child are presented here as they relate to the classroom setting.

Extreme focus

Because of their ability to focus in on one area of interest, AS children can make good students. Their ability to focus, however, can also be their weakness. The AS child may, for instance, be expert at history, but will study that subject to the detriment of all other subjects. It is up to the teacher to help the AS child to broaden his interests. It helps if the teacher can find a tie-in from the subject of the child’s interest to the subject at hand. For example, if the student is a history buff and you need to get him on board with math, it might help to give him some historical information related to math. Introduce him to some of the greatest mathematical minds of all time like Pythagoras, or Sir Isaac Newton and go from there to some of the mathematical concepts that they used or invented.

Fair play

If you have a classroom situation where your students are conspiring against you, or are trying to cover for the misbehavior of a particular student, and you have a child with AS in your room, consider yourself blessed! Because of their strong sense of fair play, you can very often count on the AS student to tell you exactly what is going on. If Suzie has hidden all the erasers, and you ask the class, ‘Who took my erasers?’ Your AS student will tell you that Suzie took them, where she hid them, and who served as her co-conspirators. (The AS child’s limited understanding of social interactions makes him unable to fully appreciate the social consequences of exposing a plot.)

If it becomes necessary for you to discipline an AS child, be prepared to explain in logical fashion why a particular disciplinary action is being meted out. The AS child’s strong sense of fair play and his limited ability to see beyond himself may work together to keep him from understanding the reasons behind the consequences of his behavior. He may even become very angry at the whole situation. If this happens, allow the child some alone time. The AS child needs this in order to ‘decompress.’ Then, after he has had some time to cool down, explain to him step-by-step what his behavior was, why discipline needs to be meted out, what the terms of the discipline are, and what he can do in the future to avoid similar consequences.

Desire for routine

Substitute teachers will learn to appreciate the AS child in their classroom. While everyone else is working hard to throw the substitute off, the AS student will be working hard to remind the class of the usual routine. On the downside, the AS child’s strong desire for routine can make change very difficult. Help the AS child by giving him as much advance warning as possible. If a field trip is coming up, take time to explain to the class when it will happen, how they will get there, when they will return, how they should behave on the bus and at the event, and so on. If you know a fire drill is coming up, explain the escape route, what the alarm will sound like – and be prepared for a potential panic attack on the day of the drill. People with AS are sensitive to certain sounds and a loud alarm may actually cause them physical pain or discomfort. It may even confuse their thinking. If they need to cover their ears, let them. If they need someone to take them by the hand and lead them out of the building, do that, or assign someone in the class to do it for you.

Awkward communication skills

When it comes to communication, people with AS tend to talk at people rather than to people. Because of this, they come across as rude or blunt when that is not their intent at all. Being factually minded, a person with Asperger’s Syndrome uses words to state facts. The ambiance of language is largely lost on them. As their teacher or parent, it is up to you not to take it personally if your AS child says something plainly without regard for the fallout that may be attached to his word choice. Parents and teachers need to take on the role of ‘social coach.’ If the words were genuinely unkind, you need to tell the child they were unkind, why they were unkind, and what they must do or say to make things right. If the words were innocent but blunt, you need to inform the child of this as well, and perhaps give him different words to convey the same idea in a kinder way.

Excellent capacity for memorization

Children with AS often have an excellent capacity for memorization. On the positive side, this makes AS children very good at rote memorization and recitation of fact. On the negative side, they are not as good at application or understanding why certain things are so. For example, if you have an AS child in a literature class, he can tell you all about what is happening in the story, but may be hard pressed to explain why the characters are acting and reacting the way they are. In your role as social coach, you can help your AS student by explaining the reasons behind the behaviors of the characters in a story.

Mimicking of behavior

Oddly enough, people with AS can be very good at role-playing. Many people with AS say they study human behavior and do their best to mimic it in o 1ff8 rder to fit in. As a result, some of them make excellent actors and impressionists. So if you have an AS student in your speech class, don’t write them off because they cannot interact well in normal social situations. Use their memorization skills to their advantage. Beyond just memorizing the words, help them to memorize gestures and vocal inflections to bring a role to life.

Social behavior

The biggest obstacle for people with AS is what has been described as ‘social blindness,’ an inability, or limited ability, to perceive and respond to social situations. This social blindness manifests itself in a number of ways. AS people…

• do not understand personal space and social distance and may either stand too close to someone or too far away.
• talk at people rather than to people because they use language primarily as a means of communicating fact.
• do not understand the give-and-take of language.
• fail to read their audience and therefore do not see when their listeners are becoming bored or irritated.

At play

It is often during play that a child learns how to interact socially. For the parent or teacher of a child with AS, play time can be very instructive both for parent or teacher and for the child with AS. The playground offers many opportunities for social coaching.

Team sports

As a general rule, most people with AS do not like participating in team sports. There are too many activities going on at once for them to process. That’s not to say that all people with AS avoid team sports. Of the five AS students I had one year, two of them played team games at recess quite regularly. One was only mildly affected with AS, and the other had all the classic characteristics of Asperger’s Syndrome. It just goes to show that AS does not affect everyone in exactly the same way. In fact, the affects of AS can vary from time to time within in the individual.

Sense of fair play

When children with AS do participate in a team activity, they are very much ‘by the book.’ They will cite every infraction they witness and be adamant that all the rules be strictly enforced. While this can be trying for you as the parent or teacher, it is also an opportunity to teach the child about…

• diplomacy: ‘Yes, so-and-so did go out of bounds, but screaming about it at the top of your lungs and demanding like the Queen of Hearts that their heads be removed, might not be the best way to enforce the rules.’
• seeing things from other perspectives: ‘I know you think so-and-so broke that rule, but just because you saw it that way doesn’t mean the referee saw it that way, or that he saw it all.’
• flexibility: ‘Remember, we’re not playing for the championship here. We’re just playing for fun. Just enjoy the game.’

Playing with others

At play, children with AS will play ‘with’ other children, but not in the fluid and interactive way typical of most children. If the AS child is playing with other children, it is often in the role of director, and the AS child expects the other children to play according to his interests. So, for example, if the child happens to have an interest in The Hobbit, someone will have to play Gandalf, someone else must play Samwise Gangee, and the AS child himself will, of course, play Frodo Baggins. Everything is fine until the other children grow weary of being directed, and decide to go and play something else. It is not at all uncommon to find the AS child in a crowded playground playing by himself, or announcing that there is no one to play with, or that no one will play with them.

All of these playground scenarios are opportunities for parents and teachers to help the child with Asperger’s Syndrome deal with similar social situations. The child may not fully overcome all of his social hurdles, but the playground can help to build his social repertoire.

Conclusion

When our son Nick was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, my wife and I were devastated at first. We didn’t know what it was, or what it would mean for his future. All we knew was that our son Nick would have AS all of his life. We couldn’t kiss it and make it better. We couldn’t make it go away. And many of the struggles associated with AS, Nick would have to face alone. For a parent, nothing could be more heart rending. But as we have come to understand AS, and as we have come into contact with others who have it, we have also come to understand that while Asperger’s Syndrome does have its limitations, within those ‘limitations’ is the potential for great achievement.

Author: Glenn Haertlein

This article may be used on the web as long as it is presented unchanged and in its entirety along with this entire resource box. For other uses, please contact the author at glenn@imglenn.net.

Glenn Haertlein is a teacher and freelance writer. To see his latest work(s), visit

http://www.imglenn.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Glenn_Haertlein

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Are These Symptoms of Aspergers or Autism?

Posted on February 18th, 2009

Differentiating Between Autism And Aspergers

Autism & Aspergers are sometimes two disorders that are often diagnosed as just plain autism. This condition that is defined as ‘classical autism’ can be found in the ASD’s known as autism spectrum disorders. The main characteristics of autism are impaired social interaction, unusual, repetitive activities that are severely limited and problems with communication both on the verbal and nonverbal levels.

Other ASD’s include Rett syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder, Aspergers syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder. Experts estimate that out of every 1,000 children, 3 to 6 will be diagnosed to have autism or aspergers to some degree. Males are much more likely to suffer with autism than females.

Common Signs of Autism and Aspergers

There are several signs of autism aspergers that one may likely get confused with autism. Autism is characterized by three distinctive behaviors. The autistic child has difficulty with social interaction, has repetitive behaviors or may have narrow, obsessive interests, and will have problems with verbal as well as with nonverbal communication. These behaviors may range from only mild to disabling.

The one characteristic that seems to stand out in an autistic child is the impaired social interaction. Signs of autism may manifest themselves as early as infancy with a baby being unresponsive to people. They may also focus intently on one object for a long period of time, much to the exclusion of others.

A child with Aspergers Disorder has a milder form of autism. Both autism aspergers are subgroups of a larger diagnostic category. As previously mentioned, these two disorders are found in the larger category named Autistic Spectrum Disorders. It is commonly known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders in the United States. In Asperger’s Disorder, children affected by this are usually characterized by social isolation and of having eccentric behavior. There are impairments both in non-verbal communication and in two-sided social interaction. They may have a peculiar sounding speech due to the abnormalities of inflection as well as a repetitive pattern. They may appear to be clumsy in gross motor behavior and in articulation. The name ‘Asperger’ came from Hans Asperger who was an Austrian physician who first characterized the disease in 1944.

Autistic children may fail to respond when their name is called, and many times, they may avoid eye contact with others. They have a difficult time in interpreting what other people are feeling or thinking, mainly due to the fact that they cannot understand social cues such as facial expressions or the tone of one’s voice. Children with autism do not watch the faces of other people to pick up on clues about appropriate behavior. They also lack empathy.

Autism aspergers children may engage in repeated movements such as twirling and rocking, or in behavior that is self-abusive such as head banging or biting. Children who are characterized with these disorders may begin speaking later than other children ordinarily would and they may even refer to themselves by their own name instead of ‘I’ or ‘me’. Autistic children do not know how to interact with other children.

It is too bad that there is no cure for autism aspergers. Perhaps soon there will be a medical breakthrough that will unlock the mind of the autistic child.

By: Jon Arnold

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For more insights and additional information about Autism Aspergers as well as learning how to cope with children afflicted with these disorders, please visit our web site at www.autism-explained.com

Tags: Aspergers Disease, symptoms of aspergers
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Treating Asperger’s Naturally

Posted on February 18th, 2009

It is difficult to find a ‘good thing’ about Asperger’s syndrome. But one positive concerning the disorder is that it can be treated and that there are many different all natural treatments available that can not only subdue many triggers, but also help your child lead a normal life. There are many different ways that you can go about treating Asperger’s naturally which will normally require involvement by the school and at home to achieve the best possible results. There are also changes to the child’s diet and even supplements that he or she can take that are believed by some to help with Asperger’s treatment.

1.The first thing that every parent who has a child diagnosed with Asperger’s needs to understand is that treatment can be very hit and miss. What might work with one child may not work with yours. Different children have reacted in different ways when it comes to diet modification.

Some children have shown improvement once dairy products were removed from their diet. With others, it was gluten and wheat-related products. Some show improvement when additives like artificial colors and food preservatives were removed. It appears that mono-sodium glutamate and tartrazine are the biggest offenders.

Removing some or all of these items may help your child, but what you need to remember is that he or she still needs to have a balanced diet.

So if you remove one major food group, make sure the child is still receiving all the proper nutrients, vitamins and minerals from other foods. The best advice is to consult a professional nutritionist who is an expert in dealing with kids who have Asperger’s syndrome or autism.

2.A good way to help supplement your child’s diet if you do find that excluding a major food group helps is with multi-vitamins. These are all natural ways to help boost your health and the health of your child.

3.Some people believe that herbs like Ginkgo biloba can help sharpen the mind and help with cognitive and neurological health. Also, bee pollen is thought to help the body regain balance and make for a sound mind and a fit body.

While there is no perfect treatment for Asperger’s syndrome, some parents have found that diet modification and the use of supplements can make a difference. Your child may respond or not to these treatments, so to monitor reactions accurately keep a diary of what treatments you are trying and note down any changes in behavior.

For more information about other natural treatments for Asperger’s Syndrome, sign up for the free newsletter below.

It’s worth remembering that when treating Asperger’s naturally it can take several weeks or months before changes can be seen. However, anything that has a detrimental effect on behavior or symptoms should be stopped immediately.

Author: Rachel Evans

Sign up for Rachel Evans free Asperger’s syndrome newsletter – Overflowing with easy to implement methods to help you discover more about Treating Asperger’s Naturally. In the newsletter you’ll receive regular information like this article on overcoming Asperger’s Syndrome along with additional natural treatments to help alleviate symptoms.

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Tags: Aspergers Disease, aspergers symptoms, treatment for Aspergers
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