How to Communicate Effectively to Children with Asperger's Symptoms

Based on my reading, Asperger's symptoms is connected to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Asperger's symptoms is also connected to:
A. the ability to receive information.
The best way to communicate effectively to children with Asperger's is by giving specific information. Make sure, that the way we are communicating is showing the fact, that is understandably, clear and without involving any feelings.
Example:
There is a boy with Asperger's climbing a 3 metres high tree.
How to communicate effectively:
• The fact:
》Remind the boy to check first before climbing the tree, whether:
1. there are any mats under the tree to protect him from any injuries, in case he falls.
2. there are ropes to be attached to his body to prevent him from falling.
3. there is a helmet to wear to protect his head from hitting his head accidentally.
4. there is a certified supervisor for the climbing activity.
5. there is a nurse on the premises, that can handle medical emergency.
6. there are First Aid and medical supplies to treat any injuries.

》Ask questions:
1. What will happen to him, if he climbs without checking the information above?
2. What will happen, if he falls?
3. What will happen, if his hands are injured?
4. Will he need help to eat or to wear the clothes/ shoes/ pants, in case he injures his hands?

》Encourage the child to decide the right and safe decision for him/her self:
The educator can give five minutes to think to the child about his/her decision.

B. the ability to control their emotion.
The educator can give the child support by giving the child a space to express their anger without injuring him/her self and others.
It will be good, if the premises provides a room with a Whac-A-Mole equipment. This equipment can help the child to express his/ her anger effectively.

C. the ability to do activities, that need hand-eye-coordination (throwing and catching a ball or snap card games).
The educator can train the child before starting the activity and then pair the child with Asperger's with another child, that has the same level of the ability, so they will not become frustrated. Make sure, that the educator pays more attention to child with Asperger's during the activity to minimise any aggressive behavior, that might happen.

©Tina Adi