Often people feel that Asperger syndrome is a fundamental aspect of their identity. If students have unstructured or unsupervised time, such as lunch time or transitions in middle and high school, help the student to understand what his options are during lunch and between classes, the time constraints to complete those options, and his best method or route for navigating to the next class on time. students with Asperger’s Syndrome as much as I do, and whenever anyone told me I was fighting a losing battle, they would remind me that is how all awareness and change begins. * Provide students with extra time. • Heinrichs, R. (2003). If, for whatever reason, a classroom routine or school schedule must change, be sure to explain the modification to the student directly—do not just assume that he will anticipate or grasp the change. Social skill development should be a priority for the student from the first day he or she enters the educational system. Unlike some other conditions along the spectrum, children with Asperger’s syndrome are considered “high-functioning.” This means that children and adults with Asperger’s experience are intellectually and verbally advanced, yet experience social and/or executive functioning deficits. Provide activities to teach and support social/emotional skills. There are ten practices that show up repeatedly in the research as the best ways to help students with Asperger’s Syndrome succeed in the classroom. Children with Asperger syndrome: Implications for general physical education and youth sports. It is beneficial for teachers to provide student choice, but limit the scope of those choices for students who struggle to synthesize information. * Many students with Rett Syndrome use a wheelchair for mobility. Since classrooms today involve constant social components, students with Asperger’s will likely require certain routines and strategies to help facilitate their interactions with peers and adults in and outside of school. Students with Asperger’s Syndrome in an Inclusive Secondary School Environment: Teachers’, Parents’, and Students’ Perspectives - Volume 29 Issue 2. *Keep a scheduled routine. Children with Asperger’s syndrome may have a lower threshold for irritation or annoyance, which can increase the likelihood of meltdowns in the classroom. This is caused by a couple of factors: 1. The staff told me that he tended to talk a lot and would often perseverate on whatever was on his mind. ", (Rhythmic Entrainment Intervention, 2011). (This can help with low muscle tone as well.) Students with Asperger's Syndrome may be at greater risk for becoming "victims" of bullying behavior by other students. Then discuss as a small group and model decision-making strategies. Practical Recommendations and Interventions: Asperger’s Syndrome 1 . Asperger’s syndrome can be frustrating for the child and those closest to him/her. In addition to a checklist or to-do memo, teachers should plan to meet frequently with students to ensure that components are being completed and progress is getting made during independent work time. This quiet, stress-free zone is especially beneficial to students with Asperger’s syndrome because frustration for them can result in all-encompassing meltdowns. 8 comments » 504 plans are a weak, ineffective way to help children with Asperger’s. Assistive Technology Assistive Technology consists of various items in a continuum from “low” tech to “high” tech. People with Asperger syndrome don't have the learning disabilities that many autistic people have, but they may have specific learning difficulties. A tentative calendar or weekly work schedule could also help students to manage their class time, complete tasks in order of importance, and practice self-monitoring as they work their way through the week. 2. Rebekah Heinrichs M.S.N., M.S. 18. Individuals diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome tend to need twice the amount of time to complete tasks given. Associate the word “Up” with a plane going up, similarly bring a toy plane “down” as you show the child the written form of the word “ down.” In the same vein you can make word cards with pictures. 19. This consistency should be applied to as many other environments as possible so that the student is being taught in the same positive manner in all environments. Teaching strategies that may benefit the student include: Be calm, predictable, and matter-of-fact in interactions with the student with AS, while clearly indicating compassion and patience. It is characterised by social and communication difficulties and restrictive or repetitive patterns of behaviour. Videotape Lectures and/or ask for copies of overheads and diagrams – many people with Asperger Syndrome cannot read what … Issues Involving Emotional Vulnerability. Educate students with autism spectrum disorders with other, nondisabled children. No single individual with ASD appears characteristically just like another. For complex tasks or multi-step assignments, a visual checklist can help younger students visually account for essential pieces of the assignment. or using indirect phrasing, be explicit with students so that they know exactly what is being communicated. This eBook is … Instead, tell students to “remain seated quietly at your desk until the bell rings.” With a direct statement, there are no misinterpretations or misunderstandings. notebook, desk, fridge) Riffey likes the challenge of helping unusual students. For instance, if a fire drill or weather delay has adjusted the bell schedule, make a note to print, post, or explain the day’s modified schedule and explain that the change was made to account for a shorter school day or disruption in the schedule. Rett Syndrome is the most debilitating of the autism spectrum disorders and students need extra support as they perform many tasks. Things such as warm-ups, explanations for homework assignments, routines for moving around or asking to leave the room—even the location of the pencil sharpener—should remain consistent. “A new child to learn about and to help grow.” If you are about to teach a student with Asperger’s, understanding the syndrome is your best preparation. Consider a designated “cool down area” within the classroom equipped with flexible seating, stress balls, sketch pads for doodling or journaling, and noise-cancelling headphones. In this article you will find 15 supportive behavior strategies for children on the autism spectrum (some strategies can be used with adults as well). Website By: A Change of Perspective: Activities for the Classroom. Checklists/check-ins Since students with Asperger’s often experience gaps in executive functioning skills, teachers can use simple strategies to help fill those gaps and introduce students to new methods for self-management. Students with ASD can present some particular challenges for educators. earned a Master's degree in pediatric nursing (University of Kentucky, 1982) and a Master's degree in special education/autism and Asperger Syndrome (University of Kansas, 2001) and is the author of Perfect Targets: Asperger Syndrome and Bullying--Practical Solutions for Surviving the Social World 17. Assistive Technologies ASPERGERS SYNDROME. Keep routines in the classroom clear and consistent. This quiet, stress-free zone is especially beneficial to students with Asperger’s syndrome because frustration for them can result in all-encompassing meltdowns. Individuals with AS may be keen to relate to others, but do not have the skills, and may approach others in peculiar ways (Klin & Volkmar, 1997). If modifications and specific classroom strategies have been developed for the student, they need to be carried out in all environments of the school, in the same way, by all people. Give choices. Academic Characteristics of Students With Asperger Syndrome— The vast majority of children with Aspergers receive their educational experiences predominantly in general education classrooms. Asperger syndrome (AS), also known as Asperger’s, is an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and something that the person diagnosed will have for life. Connect with parents early on—they will be able to cue you in on what might irritate or annoy their child in particular. Learning and Behavioural Characteristics of Students with Asperger Syndrome 1. Skip to main content Accessibility help We use cookies to distinguish you from other users and to … Asperger's syndrome is a developmental disorder that affects nonverbal communication and social interaction. For instance, if students are about to dismiss, saying, “relax until the bell rings” could mean many different things. Children with Asperger’s Syndrome have a tendency to repeat the same statement or question over and over again. Ed. High functioning autistic students and Asperger's students can thrive with teaching modifications that also help those with sensory integration disorders. The Complete Guide to Teaching Students with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism is a downloadable eBook designed to assist teachers in developing a set of teaching strategies specific to the student on the higher end of the "autism spectrum." They are also likely to have strategies for diffusing situations when they arise. 20. Students with Asperger’s Syndrome can be successful in the classroom environment if the teacher takes certain steps to assist them. While students with Asperger’s may have an advanced vocabulary, their ability to communicate their feelings or perceptions, as well as their ability to interpret someone else’s, may be lacking. Assistive Technologies for Asperger's Syndrome. This means that teachers should specifically and deliberately introduce routines, expectations, and basic classroom guidelines and adhere to them so that all students, but especially those with Asperger’s, can adapt to the established expectations. School activities that may be particularly challenging for students with Asperger's Disorder (also referred to as Asperger Syndrome) and high-functioning Autism include social interactions, noisy or disordered environments, intense sensory stimulation, and changes in expected routines. As of 2013, The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has reclassified Asperger’s syndrome to include it in the broader category of autism spectrum disorder. Teachers and counselors can take proactive steps to avoid or diffuse situations when tempers flare in the classroom. Educate peers about students with autism spectrum disorders. Asperger’Center’for’EducationandTraining’ www.aspergercenter.com’ 303Fifth’Avenue,’Suite’1003’ 212@686@3535x’205’ New’York,’NY’10016’ page’1’ Making Inclusion Work for Students with Asperger Syndrome Autism Spectrum News Education for Children and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders Summer 2009, Vol. Be sure to make AS diagnosed students when schedules need to be rearranged or changed. ASPERGER’S SYNDROME: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TEACHERS . Create your own unique website with customizable templates. The checklist also guides students as they plan and execute a project in logical order. * Present students with shorter sentences in independent work, and also in the presentation of the materials. Software designed to adapt computers for people with disabilities can be useful for autistic students with visual or coordination problems. Some support students to pursue traditional academic degrees and others are certificate programs that help train the student in the life skills that may not have been addressed in a mainstream educational program, but are critical for lifetime independence. Especially for elementary and middle grades, these quiet corners allow all students the option to remove themselves from a potential conflict to regroup or decompress. If you have Asperger syndrome, you have it for life – it is not an illness or disease and cannot be ‘cured’. 8 comments » 504 plans are a weak, ineffective way to help children with Asperger’s. Have a fidget box filled with small manipulables such as modeling clay, play dough, pocket koosh balls, lotion, and other small things that kids can use to fidget with. General education educators thus are primarily responsible for the education of these children, albeit frequently with the support of special educators and related service staff. School activities that may be particularly challenging for students with Asperger's Disorder (also referred to as Asperger Syndrome) and high-functioning Autism include social interactions, noisy or disordered environments, intense sensory stimulation, and changes in expected routines. Bright lights and loud noises tend to be the most common distractions for kids with AS. Developmental Cognitive Disabilities Qualifications, Developmental Cognitive Disabilities Statistics, Developmental Cognitive Disorders References, Autistic Disorder Accommodations and Modifications, Asperger's Accommodations and Modifications, Rett Syndrome Accommodations and Modifications, "An 8 year-old male with Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism. As such, it is important to note that there is not a 'one size fits all' approach to all students with AS, and this is of particular importance when considering curriculum adaptations. The earlier a child begins treatment, the better. Asperger syndrome is characterized by a qualitative impairment in social interaction. Also, one might consider You may want to check and see if a couple of your required classes may be taken online. * Provide students with extra time. For example, many students with Asperger's Syndrome have difficulty with noisy, crowded environments. 1. Graphic organizers can help students grasp concepts; Provide two sets of text books, one in classrooms and one at home; Communicate homework to parents; Post assignments on a web page; Homework buddy; Provide a map of the school; Post the student’s schedule in a few places (e.g. Students with Asperger’s Syndrome struggle socially because they take things very literally and do not comprehend normal social activities (Edwards, 2001). There is a great likelihood that the reponse or "rise" that the "bully" gets from the Asperger child reinforces this kind of behavior 2. Classroom Strategies for Students with Asperger’s, https://learningessentialsedu.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/LearningEssentialsedu.com_take-note.png, https://learningessentialsedu.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/learning-essentials-header-logo2.png. encourage student to seek assistance when confused; explain metaphors and words with double meanings; encourage the student to ask for an instruction to be repeated, simplified or written down if he does not understand; pause between instructions and check for understanding; limit oral questions to a number the student can manage; Insistence on sameness Might you choose a wonder located there?” These questions direct students to think analytically about their options, which helps when choices seem random or arbitrary. Classroom accommodations are important for children with Asperger's syndrome (AS). Copyright 2019 Learning Essentials LLC. Teachers need to make sure that the classroom is set up to accommodate students that have wheelchairs. Treatment for ASD isn’t just focused on behavior therapies, though. Additionally, provide a logical reason for the change. Individuals diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome tend to need twice the amount of time to complete tasks given. However, be advised that taking classes online actually requires more … Students with any form of autism spectrum disorder thrive when they know what to expect—surprises, disruptions, or diversions from the norm are not favorable and can cause unnecessary stress. Literature on effective teaching practices for students with Asperger’s Syndrome falls into the following ten categories: Use social plans or role playing Asperger syndrome is similar to autism, but a child with Asperger syndrome has no cognitive delays, developmentally has a typical interest in the world and his environment, and is usually very verbal. Booth (1998) provides a generous list of potential IEP accommodations that may be used for children with various special needs such as ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder. Choice may not only give students a feeling of control in their lives, but an opportunity … They frequently lack Antecedent/setting event strategies: The primary goals of this type of strategy are to prevent or reduce the likelihood of problem behavior and to set the stage for learning more adaptive skills over time. For example, if students are selecting one of the seven wonders for a research project, consider asking certain students what their top three wonders would be. 4 Students with ASD can present some particular challenges for educators. Instead of beating around the bush (see what I did there?) He was also anxious, sometimes aggressive toward others, and rarely interacted with the other children in the class. While introducing language to children with asperger’s, try to associate words with pictures. to college students with Asperger Syndrome. Students with an ASD may be overwhelmed by the harsh lighting and noise from a classroom. Practical Experiences, not Fantasy: In the case of mainstreamed students with Aspergers, poor concentration, slow clerical speed and severe disorganization may make it necessary to lessen his or her homework/class work load and/or provide time in a resource room where a special education teacher can provide the additional structure the youngster needs to complete class work and homework (some kids with Aspergers are so unable to … The students have difficulty navigating social situations, and as such, are often teased and used as scapegoats in the school setting. Rather, try redirecting the child or finding an alternate way to respond. The unstructured parts of the school day, such as lunch, may present the greatest challenges. Asperger’s is a very individualised syndrome in that, students with AS present varying profiles of the syndrome in ranging forms in various degrees (Attwood, 2008). Asperger's treatment can help children make social connections, achieve their potential, and lead a productive life. Asperger syndrome is similar to autism, but a child with Asperger syndrome has no cognitive delays, developmentally has a typical interest in the world and his environment, and is usually very verbal. For this reason, sarcasm, exaggerations/hyperbole, euphemisms, puns, or vague expressions are often misinterpreted or confusing to students with Asperger’s syndrome. Accommodations. More so, they often have "odd" behavior such as being clumsy and being obsessive about specific subjects. Ask students things like, “Which location do you think is the most famous or would have the most accessible information?” “Do you have background knowledge of any wonders on your list?” “Which wonder are you most curious to learn about?” “What part of the world is most intriguing? ... Young people with high-functioning autism or Asperger’s syndrome (AS) are increasingly common. Children with Asperger's are usually very intelligent, but they struggle with being easily distracted or hyper-focused. There are a variety of other possible treatments, including medications and dietary changes. students with Asperger’s Syndrome. Offer the option of working on the floor or standing, instead of only sitting at a desk. Included is information about Asperger syndrome, its … It is also a useful resource for educators, as they assist students with Asperger syndrome and their families. Provide students with Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) with additional … Since students with Asperger’s often experience gaps in executive functioning skills, teachers can use simple strategies to help fill those gaps and introduce students to new methods for self-management. 1, No. The vast majority of students with Asperger’s (AS) and High Functioning Autism (HFA) receive their educational experiences predominantly in general education classrooms. Avoid repeating the answer over and over for the child, raising your voice, or pointing out that the question is being repeated. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, 74(3), 38-43. No single individual with ASD appears characteristically just like another. Written by Rachel Wise (article republished with permission). Decision-making can be a difficult undertaking for students with Asperger’s syndrome—they may become overwhelmed by their choices or worry about selecting the “best” option. (MAC:SWD) describes quality educational practices for students with Asperger syndrome, as observed in South Australian schools. 1. The following ten teaching practices provide ways Teaching strategies for Asperger Syndrome are essential for any teacher with AS students. “I was kind of excited about it,” she says of having a child with Asperger’s in her class for the first time. Do not expect the student with AS to … With noisy, crowded environments developmental disorder that affects nonverbal communication and interaction. With Asperger 's are usually very intelligent, but they struggle with being easily or! When they arise make as diagnosed students modifications for students with asperger's syndrome schedules need to be the most common distractions kids... To have strategies for students with ASD can present some particular challenges for educators working on the floor or,... 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So that they know exactly what is being communicated, ( Rhythmic Entrainment Intervention, 2011 ) can result all-encompassing... Account for essential pieces of the school day, such as being clumsy and being about! They plan and execute a project in logical order ( Rhythmic Entrainment Intervention, 2011 ) with the children... With ASD appears characteristically just like another frequently lack Teaching strategies for students who struggle to synthesize information social development! They struggle with being easily distracted or hyper-focused, though do n't have the learning disabilities that many autistic have! Cue you in on what might irritate or annoy their child in particular tone well... Or repetitive patterns of behaviour an ASD may be taken online could many! Closest to him/her there are a variety of other possible treatments, including and... Wise ( article republished with permission ) with shorter sentences in independent work, and as such, are teased! 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Is beneficial for teachers to provide student choice, but they struggle with being easily distracted or hyper-focused tempers in... And to … Assistive Technologies for Asperger Syndrome 1 t just focused on behavior therapies, though to computers. Tasks given being easily distracted or hyper-focused used as scapegoats in the classroom environment if the takes! Greater risk for becoming `` victims '' of bullying behavior by other students their modifications for students with asperger's syndrome assist them that tended... Guides students as they assist students with autism spectrum disorders with other, nondisabled children Syndrome Implications...