Garcia's Gifts at SMS

What is Aspergers? It is a neurobiological disorder.  Students with Aspergers struggle with social skills, have difficulties with transitions or changes and prefer sameness. They may obsess on a routine and may be preoccupied with a particular subject of interest. Students typically have difficulty reading nonverbal cues (body language).   They use sarcasm but typically do not understand it.  Also they have a hard time grasping abstract concepts and learn better when it material is presented to them in a concrete manner.

• Language/Communication

¨ Most fluent when on preferred topic

¨ Like to correct others (well actually)

¨ Miss conversational cues

¨ Don’t ask you questions, just talk (may ask about you but do not really care)

¨ Like facts and information

¨ One or more highly developed areas of interest

• Social/Emotional

¨ Limited eyes contact but tend to stare

¨ Don’t blink and can make you uncomfortable

¨ Sometimes seen as ADHD, ED or conduct disorder

¨ When listening, may have trouble making eye contact and processing at same time

¨ Anxiety can cause processing issues

¨ Do not understand abstract ideas

¨ Hard time understanding sarcasm

Tools for your Toolbox Strategies for Successful Classroom

¨ Use consistent routines

¨ Provide visual instructions, rules, etc.

¨ Be alert to anxiety levels

¨ Clearly identify purpose of assignments and your expectations

¨ Encourage student to verbalize what you have said

¨ Utilize sticky notes of desired expectation

¨ Avoid power struggles.  State your expectations and walk away.