Info on Aspergers Syndrome

here is a great resource:
http://www.centerforautism.com/

search for a local autism support group, via the above site, (asberger's falls under the same 'umbrella' as autism) for parents because the people will know all the dirt on what services a diagnosis will get you, where to go for a faster diagnosis, what providers have good services etc. Your basic gossip hotline...

here's another good resource:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/healthinformation/autismmenu.cfm

Hi R.,

My experience with Aspergers is that there is a wide "spectrum" to the disorder. What, if any are your concerns, his school's concerns, or the psychologist's concerns?

Many children with AS are highly intelligent and very gifted. At times, they lack some understanding of social interactions but can be taught to recognize and understand apppropriate skills.

Do not let any diagnosis (ADHD, AS or any others) prevent you from having high expectations for your child who may only require simple modifications to your daily routine!!!

I'd be happy to talk more if you need to!!
Take care,
K.

Hi R..

I have two sons, ages 7 and almost 5. My 7 yr old is diagnosed with ADHD and my almost 5 yr old was diagnosed at age 2 1/2 with Moderate Autism. I am a member of a support group called FACES (Florida Autism Coalition for Education and Services). We meet in Palm Coast on the first Wed and the third Thurs of each month. It just so happens that not only does our founder have a son with autism, he himself has Aspergers Syndrome. He is a doctor and is very articulate and passionate about the subject of autism. Let me know if you want more info about our group or would like to talk to me further!

I'd be happy to help in any way I can!

You're in my prayers....

C.

I worked with a child approximately the same age when I was teaching out of state. While he was not officially diagnosed with Asperger's (the parents could not deal with even the thought on top of all the other problems given), his resource teacher and I treated him as if we had the diagnosis. I am proud to report that he went from being able to stay in his classroom less than 10% of the day at the beginning of the year, to spending more than 99% of the day in his class without major problems by the end of the year, plus his grades went up dramatically.
Children with AS have a hard time with social skills and with school, even though they are extremely bright, because they miss cues that seem normal to us. It's like a glitch in a computer program. They do not understand facial and verbal cues, but can easily be taught; any website on asperger's can give you an idea of where to get flashcards for emotions and such. They also need to have consistency. When they are given concretes they can function. A little while means nothing.....5 minutes with you pointing to the clock will make a difference. Create a schedule for him to be able to see, and then stick with it. If you have to change the schedule, make sure that you give him plenty of time to process the change.
You'll be fine......the best way to deal with a AS child? Love them!