Asperger’s Syndrome – How to Handle It

Asperger’s syndrome is a relatively new term given to children with certain behavioral tendencies. It is becoming increasingly more and more common to hear of children being diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome. But what we need to realise is that it is not a death sentence, merely an inconvenience that as parents we need to learn to work with.

There is no known outright cure, but by following a few simple rules we certainly can help make life easier for the child who has been diagnosed with asperger’s syndrome. Here are a few simple things we can do to help:

1. Always be very friendly to the child, but firm. If you are playing a game and the child is having difficulty understanding things, be gentle yet firm. You might have to take the time to explain things maybe a couple of times. But the child must learn to abide by rules just like anybody else does.

2. Give Asperger’s children the chance to practice the skills that they are lacking in. I understand you cannot force them to do anything. But if they have the chance to do something for themselves, do your best to encourage them to complete the task if possible, always giving them plenty of encouragement.

3. Sometimes not so pleasant behaviour just needs to be overlooked. I know how hard this can be but sometimes it is for the best. It’s a bit like toddlers throwing tantrums. Often when as parents we ignore the behaviour it will eventually go away. The same is often true with Asperger’s kids and unsavoury behaviour. Having said that, obviously dangerous activities should be stopped quickly.

4. If need be, ask the child if you can help them with anything, especially if you happen to see that the child is struggling with something. They may say no, but it is always a nice gesture to offer help sometimes. This does not mean that you take over and do everything for the child. You need to strike a balance somehow.

These tips will help you learn to cope better with Asperger’s children.

Kim Patrick is a single mum with four children who lives on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Australia. She is a parent coach, seminar speaker and author of the book “Get Your Child To Behave In 30 Days Or Less”.

Kim is also creator of the renowned CD entitled “Sleeping Angels For The Asperger’s Syndrome Child”, aimed at facilitating a behavioral change in Asperger’s syndrome children while they are sleeping. Her web site address is http://www.mysleepingangel.com/aspergers.html

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