Asberger's

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Home : 2003 : September : 13

Asberger's
By Linda

I have taught two students with Asberger's. One was a first grader and this year I have sixth grade. Both become upset if given work that they think is "too easy", so make sure that you have some supplemental work for them.
They usually have a topic that they are very interested in, so use that to your advantage. Both have problems interacting with peers. I found that I could not force that, but gently encourage interaction with small group or 1 on 1 activities. Both had problems staying on task, so placing their desks close to yours or in a spot where you will be nearby most of the time is helpful.

I also found that they need frequent "breaks", so provide a quiet spot in the classroom where they can go for a few minutes to compose themselves but don't let them stay too long. Also, be vigilant about bullies. These kids are targets for teasing and bullying and it will set them off. Be pro-active in preventing these blow-ups because they are very slow to calm down.