Although Aspergers syndrome is a kind of autism, it's considered a mild type and children begin showing symptoms quite early. Only a doctor or psychologist can really tell if a child has Aspergers, as some of its symptoms are also typical in other conditions. We will now explore some of the symptoms of Aspergers that children are likely to exhibit.
Children with Aspergers have a strong dislike of change, and can become very attached to routines and schedules. This does not only mean routines that are typical, like going to school, but habits that he or she develops. This may be the time the child gets up, what he has for dinner or the route you take driving home from the store. If you come home an hour late from work, or if the furniture is rearranged, the child may become distraught.
Changes of any kind are hard on children with Aspergers, though there can be other explanations why a child reacts this way.
Very often, children with Aspergers will seem to have no ability to relate to others at all. They may seem completely self-absorbed and show no interest in what others think or say. It's not unusual for children to be selfish, but at some point they usually learn basic social skills and are able to interact with people.
Children generally learn how to carry on a normal conversation that goes back and forth. It's not unusual for someone with Aspergers to not even look at someone who is talking, or to talk at the same time.
Difficulty with certain subjects in school is common with children who have Aspergers', even though their intelligence may be normal or even above average. They are likely to have a very hard time focusing on anything that doesn't interest them, though they may have a favorite subject that they excel in. While all kids do better in certain subjects than others, the child with Aspergers has an especially hard time focusing on anything he or she isn't interested in. It's not uncommon for children with Aspergers to have very good grades in one subject and very poor grades in another. Solving apparently simple problems or following rules may be difficult for the child. These kind of academic problems are common with Aspergers, but keep in mind that there are lots of reasons why a child may have trouble in school. Understanding the conditionwill make it easier to understand the child. These kids are not retarded mentally and are capable of reacting especially once you understand them better. Seek the help of a physician if your child is exhibiting any of these symptoms.
