Classroom Challenges for Asperger Students
The characteristics of Aspergers (high functioning autism) translate into challenges to learning, behavior, and socialization for the youngster with the disorder and pose just as significant difficulties for the teacher in terms of teaching, controlling behaviors, and maintaining a classroom environment that is conducive to learning by all students, including the youngster with Aspergers. The list below provides a quick reference guide for some of the common difficulties kids with Aspergers have in the classroom. Common difficulties in the classroom: • Academic difficulties • Appear “normal” to other people • Difficulties with abstract concepts • Difficulty with learning in large groups • Difficulty with reciprocal conversations • Emotional vulnerability • Inability to make friends • Insistence on sameness/difficulty with changes in routine • Interests limited to specific topics • Low frustration tolerance • Motor clumsiness • Pedantic speech • Poor c