Aspergers Education Strategies

Children with Aspergers need certain things in order to receive a proper Aspergers education. Their behavior is hard to understand for some parents, but once they gain a better understanding of children with Aspergers, they can begin to help their children the way that they need help. Here are a few suggestions that can help parents help their students with Aspergers.

·         Don't expect eye contact. Their lack of eye contact has nothing to do with disrespect, but it has everything to do with their Aspergers. Use probing questions to make sure they understand what is expected of them instead of using eye contact as an indicator in their Aspergers education.

·         Every child is different from others. Parents should take the time to get to know their children with Aspergers so they understand how they think and operate. Do not put them in a category with your other children or educational failures will occur.

·         Use visual cues when at all possible. Children with Aspergers are usually visual learners and they depend on these cues in their Aspergers education. They have difficulty processing oral language so hands-on, visual cues are a tremendous help.

·         Do not ask them to show their work on math problems. Children with Aspergers have the ability to come up with answers by processing the information in their heads. They may not even understand why you want them to show their work. A better solution is to ask them to explain the process to you. Do not waste time trying to get them to do something that will result in an unnecessary argument and nothing more.

·         Parents should allow frequent breaks. Children with Aspergers may need to take breaks as a part of their Aspergers education. Sometimes they have problems with focusing on tasks so allowing a break when they need it is a tremendous help.

·         Always try to minimize sensory distractions as much as possible. Ticking clocks, tapping pens, crumbling paper, and other things can be a huge distraction for children with Aspergers. It is impossible to control all sensory distractions, but when at all possible, minimize these distractions.

·         Use the IEP as the model for their Aspergers Education. This is their individualized plan for educational success so parents should take advantage of using the IEP.

·         Minimize change as much as possible. Allow some transition time before asking a child to do something that is out of their normal routine. Parents should always plan for change as far in advance as possible.

Parents can help their children receive a proper Aspergers education by using a few simple strategies to ensure the success of their children. When in doubt, refer to the IEP or speak to a special education staff member for guidance.