Early Intervention for Children With Asperger's

Once diagnosed in a separate category, Asperger̵7;s syndrome is officially one of several Autism Spectrum Disorders. This high functioning form of autism begins in early childhood and affects the learning process as well as, behavior and social interactions. There is no cure for Asperger̵7;s, but early intervention proves to be invaluable for children diagnosed with the disorder. The introduction of life skills, or learning aids to manage personal life and accomplish goals, occupational therapy to cope with physical disabilities and the instituting of educational plans that enhance learning are just a few intervention strategies that are most effective when introduced soon after diagnosis.

  1. DSM-V 2013

    • It is important to mention that although some continue to use the term ̶0;Asperger̵7;s̶1;, the fifth addition of the Diagnostic and Statistics Manual (DSM-V), published in May 2013, re-categorized all Pervasive Developmental Disorders; placing these disorders within the Autism classification. The change in definition should not affect any future treatment that children receive. In fact, a clinician will now be able to tailor a diagnosis to better fit the needs of her patient.

    Speech Therapy

    • While many diagnosed with Asperger's do not have speech delays, they do have difficulties expressing their feelings and communicating with others. Intervening in the early years with specialized speech therapy programs, can help. According to the University of Virginia, speech therapy can effectively begin as early as two years of age. During this therapy, professionals focus on inflection, tone and additional speech skills to build communication skills. A common aspect of Asperger̵7;s speech therapy is role-playing. This technique is most effective in helping the child interact with peers and family members during one-on-one or group communication.

    Behavior

    • Early behavioral intervention can help children with Asperger̵7;s improve their social skills. Children with Asperger̵7;s often engage in mimicking and gesturing that may be confusing to others. Hyper-focusing and displaying emotionally or socially inappropriate behavior may also hinder relationships. The Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine explains that behavior modification can be helpful in promoting good behavior through goal setting. The behavioral contract is an agreement between the child and his parents or teachers, tracking his behavior over a set period of time. At times, severe behavioral interventions may require a more stringent intervention that includes punishment and reinforcement techniques.

    Medications

    • Although no medications are exclusively for children with Asperger̵7;s, physicians do prescribe certain stimulants, antipsychotics and antidepressants to limit instances of repetitive, impulsive and self-injurious behaviors during intervention. According to the University of Toledo̵7;s website, Risperidone is one antipsychotic medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration that some physicians prescribe for Asperger̵7;s patients who have severe behavioral difficulties. Olanzapine, another antipsychotic, can also help diffuse irritability in a child with Asperger̵7;s.

    Family Intervention

    • If you have questions about the interventions available for your Asperger child, the University of Florida suggests contacting an expert; specifically, the person who provided you the Asperger diagnosis. He may also be able to provide you with information about intervention programs for your family, as well. Because Asperger̵7;s is a disorder that affects parents and siblings, intervention programs may help relieve some of the stress associated with the behavioral and social provocations your child faces.

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