Upon first interaction, one can notice something different in children with Asperger syndrome. Asperger’s syndrome in children can be loosely characterised as someone who has heighten intellectual abilities on one side of the coin and somewhat social awkward on the other side with obsessive behaviours. Asperger’s syndrome in children can be defined as a “high-functioning” variation of Autism. In 2013, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), added Asperger’s under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, the term Asperger’s syndrome is still used by many professionals. So what does Asperger’s syndrome in children look like. Asperger’s syndrome can be one of the most misunderstood syndromes in children and can result in children being boxed in stereotypical and prejudices.
Asperger’s Syndrome in children can include but not limited to the following symptoms or behaviour.
- difficulty making friends of the same age, children with ASD may feel more comfortable with adults or much younger children
- engages in one-sided, long-winded conversations, without noticing if the listener is still listening or trying to change the subject
- displays unusual nonverbal communication, such as lack of eye contact, few facial expressions, or awkward body postures and gestures
- does not empathize with or seems insensitive to others’ feelings and has a hard time “reading” other people or may have difficulty understanding humour
- doesn’t understand the give-and-take of conversation or engage in “small talk”
- seems egocentric or self-absorbed
- may speak in a voice that is monotone, rigid, jerky or unusually fast
- may be extremely literal or have difficulty understanding the nuances of language, despite having a good vocabulary
At the Star Academy, Asperger’s Syndrome in children can be managed in a respectful manner and teach the necessary skills to navigate the child’s world, free from any form of stigma and discrimination. At the Star Academy, we offer more than just a programme that will greatly benefit your child, we offer hope in recovery. Asperger’s syndrome in children is recoverable! With an individualised programme offering client-centred interventions, the Star Academy strive to make a difference in each child that walks through our doors. Asperger’s syndrome in children should be treated more than just the diagnosis. The Star Academy strive to break the boundaries of the label and offer evidence-based therapy that surpasses the labels that children with Asperger’s syndrome face every day.
Early intervention is the key! Don’t wait to take a step into the right direction, get your child the help today. Asperger’s syndrome in children is not a death sentence. Recovery is possible! There is always hope! Help spread the awareness of Asperger’s Syndrome in children. Awareness fosters more recovery cases and help change the very fabric of society.
– Nicole Mtshali