Parenting the Asperger’s Child: Clues that Something is Wrong

Does you child have Asperger syndrome? Young children who have this disorder that is on the autism spectrum start displaying the tendencies at a very young age. By age two, they can be obsessed with a specific toy and spend hours playing with it quietly in the corner. They may not wish to be with the rest of the family, but enjoy being by themselves. They may line toys up in specific order and melt down if things get out of line. Example: Lining toy cars up in a line, with each one being exactly in place next to the other.

Asperger children often have meltdowns. This is not a regular temper tantrum. This can go on for hours, or only a few minutes. Months later, the child may once again meltdown over the incident when you’re least expecting it. Parents would have thought it was something that was long forgotten.

Asperger syndrome is mainly prevalent in boys, though girls do have it occasionally. The child may seem odd or eccentric. He may have odd mannerisms and have trouble socializing. Children who have this disorder do not usually experience language delays, but are very intelligent and have memories that may seem almost photographic. They may not like to be cuddled or touched often. Certain textures in food or clothing can make them extremely upset. They may refuse to eat certain foods because of the way it feels in their mouths. They may refuse to wear certain pieces of clothing because the feel of it on their skin is abrasive.

Children who suffer from Asperger syndrome are often described as “odd” or “quirky.” It is believed that the disorder is hereditary.

If you have a child that displays the above tendencies, you might want to do more research on Asperger syndrome, which is on the pervasive development spectrum.