My ASD Child

“I have an autistic student (level 1, high functioning) in my 5th grade class this year and was needing to know if there are any communication impairments associated with the condition that I should be aware of. Thanks in advance.” Although significant problems with speech are not typical of High-Functioning Autism (HFA), there are at least 4 features of these students’ communication skills that should be understood. 1. Though inflection and intonation are not be as rigid and monotonic as in classic autism, speech is often marked by poor prosody (i.e., patterns of stress and intonation). Young people with HFA often have an odd manner of speaking (e.g., words enunciated precisely and formally; the speed, volume and rhythm may be strange). Problem areas to look out for include talking loudly, odd rhythms of speech, stilted or formal speech, monotonous sound, little or no inflection, and difficulties in coordinating speaking and breathing. 2.  Speech is often vague...

"How does one tell the difference between meltdowns and temper tantrums in a child with ASD level 1? I certainly do not want to punish my son for something he cannot control."  ASD level 1 or High-Functioning Autism is a neurological condition. The brain is wired differently, making this disorder a lifelong condition. It affects communication, social interaction and sensory issues. ASD is often referred to as the "invisible syndrome" because of the internal struggles these kids have without outwardly demonstrating any real noticeable symptoms. Thus, difficultly assessing someone with the disorder is even more impacted. Kids with this disorder struggle with a problem and internalize their feelings until their emotions boil over, leading to a complete meltdown. These outbursts are not a typical temper tantrum. For children on the autism spectrum (and for their parents), these episodes are much worse. Many of these kids may appear under-receptive or over-r...

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"Is it common for children with high-functioning autism to have problems relating to their friends and classmates - and be somewhat of a ‘loner’?" Although the social criteria for High-Functioning Autism (HFA) and classic autism are somewhat similar, the former disorder involves fewer symptoms and has a different presentation than does the latter. Kids with HFA are often socially isolated, but are aware of the presence of others, even though their approaches may be inappropriate and odd (e.g., they may engage the listener in one-sided conversation using long-winded, pedantic speech about a favorite and narrow topic). Although some kids with HFA are often self-described "loners," they often express an interest in making friends. These wishes are often hindered by their strange approaches and insensitivity to the other person's feelings, intentions, and nonliteral and implied communications (e.g., need for privacy, signs of boredom, desire to leave,...

"My husband and I believe that Ryan, our 6-year-old son, may have the milder form of autism. Is it ever too early to get a child diagnosed? How does one go about seeking a diagnosis? And, what are our treatment options?" If you are noticing some of the early symptoms of High-Functioning Autism (or Asperger's), then it is not too early to seek a diagnosis regardless of the child’s age. Early symptoms usually include problems with social interaction. For example: a significant lack of empathy can become very upset if someone touches their things, moves furniture or toys around demonstrate an extreme aversion or tantrums during transitions  difficulties with social skills display a very narrow or an unusual range of interests, with elaborate or unusual play-based behaviors do not notice if a peer or playmate loses interest, or even wanders away  find interpreting social comments, facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language as difficult as trying to in...

"I need some ideas on how to handle behavior problems in my students who have autism spectrum disorder. Thanks in advance!" Managing children with High Functioning Autism (HFA), or Asperger’s, will present you with some unique and distinctive challenges. Not only will these children demand more of your time and patience, many will require specialized instructional techniques in a structured environment that supports and enhances their learning potential. It is important to remember that HFA children are not “disabled” or inept – they simply need differentiated instruction tailored to their unique learning abilities. Preschool— Currently, there is no single, uniform presenting picture of HFA in the first 3-4 years of life. The early picture may be difficult to distinguish from typical Autism, suggesting that when evaluating any autistic youngster with apparently normal intelligence, there is a strong possibility that he may eventually have a picture more compatible wit...

“Is it common for children on the high functioning end of autism to hate touch and avoid being hugged, held, etc.? My grandson will rarely show affection.” Although it can happen, it is rare for kids with Level 1 Autism (High-Functioning Autism) to "refuse" to be touched at all times - in all situations. However, it is fairly common for these kids to have tactile sensory issues, which may make them avoid certain types of physical contact with others on occasion. BUT... this really has nothing at all to do with the inability - or lack of desire - to show or receive affection. Autistic kids are the most loving and affectionate people I know! So please don't make the mistake of taking your grandson’s lack of interest in physical contact as a personal insult. One of the most pervasive myths that surround Level 1 Autism is that a youngster who has it will never show affection and can’t accept getting affection from anyone. There have been hundreds of stories of parents...