Resources for Teachers
http://www.aane.org/resources/children-and-
Common Characteristics
Of the many possible symptoms or
characteristics, these are some of the
most common
Limited or inappropriate social
interactions
Robotic or repetitive speech
Challenges with understanding
nonverbal communication
(gestures, facial expression, etc.)
coupled with average to above
average verbal skills
Awkward movements and or
mannerisms
Dislike of change
Lack of eye contact
Identification Procedures
and Service Delivery
Usually diagnosed by multi-disciplinary
diagnostic team, usually including a
speech and language therapist,
pediatrician, psychiatrist and/or
psychologist, who will ask questions and
observe the individual in different
environments in order to make a
diagnosis. Services can be delivered
through social skills training, speech
therapy, etc, (More information under
Classroom Considerations.)
teens/elementary-school/
http://www.aane.org/resources/children-and-
teens/middle-school/
https://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/tool-
kits/asperger-syndrome-and-high-functioning-autism-
tool-kit/classroom
Resources for Parents
https://www.autismspeaks.org/family-
services/resource-library/asperger-syndrome
http://www.aane.org/
References:
Asperger Syndrome. (2016). Retrieved October 05,
2016, from https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-
autism/asperger-syndrome
Asperger syndrome - NAS. (n.d.). Retrieved October
05, 2016, from
http://www.autism.org.uk/about/what-
is/asperger.aspx
Asperger Syndrome Information Page: National
Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
(NINDS). (n.d.). Retrieved October 05, 2016, from
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/asperger/asper
ASPERGER
ger.htm
Asperger's Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and
Treatment. (n.d.). Retrieved October 05, 2016, from
SYNDROME
http://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/mental-
health-aspergers-syndrome#2
Educators Archives The Asperger / Autism Network
(AANE). (n.d.). Retrieved October 05, 2016, from
http://www.aane.org/topics/professionals/educator
s/
Packer, L. E., PhD. (n.d.). Classroom Tips for Students
with Asperger's Disorder. Retrieved October 05, 2016,
from:http://www.schoolbehavior.com/disorders/asp
ergers-nld/classroom-tips-for-students-with-
aspergers-
disorder/
Courtney Dickinson
Classroom Teaching Strategies
Pause between transitions and
Considerations check for understanding.
Providing visual organizers for the
Incorporate visual cues and
daily routine
graphics/graphic organizers as
Change is difficult for students with
much as possible because abstract
Asperger Syndrome, so having a
thinking can be difficult.
consistent routine reduces the stress
Because it can be difficult for a
on the student and creates a more
comfortable environment for the
student to make eye contact, they Behavior Management
wont get as much information If a student with Asperger Syndrome
student.
from looking at the teacher as the is doing something inappropriate,
Prepare the student for any changes
students without Asperger correct the behavior by telling them
beforehand.
Syndrome. By holding props and in short, clear statements what they
Non-verbal cues can be difficult to
changing the props often, the should do.
understand, so use strong verbal
student is more likely to look at the Avoid situations that might produce
cues often.
teacher. sensory overload for the student,
Teach students social skills through
Dont expect skills to translate to causing a meltdown.
role playing, modelling and stories.
other settings, teach it in a variety Give clear expectations/rules for
Students tend to interpret language
of settings and ways. behavior.
literally, so avoid slang or sarcasm
Handwriting can be difficult for Avoid using behavior modification
when possible.
students with Asperger Syndrome, that would work for some students,
If the student is feeling
so allow for extra time and use but cause robotic-like behaviors in
overwhelmed, help them make an
word processors when possible. students with Asperger Syndrome.
exit to a safe place where they can
If the student asks a lot of Be very sensitive to peer rejection and
calm themselves.
questions that interfere with class bullying. Maybe involve extra
instruction, talk to them and ask supervision on the playground, bus,
what would help them to find halls, etc. Pre-plan for situations, with
appropriate times to ask questions. the student on what they will do in
Arrange for special speech and certain situations.
language services to help with Be Patient!
communication and conversational
social skills.