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.