All Autism Not Created Equal

Posted by Karen Plumley Dec 17, 2008

Hi there!

I have an intense interest in autism and Asperger syndrome as it relates to children, education, and parenting and am especially grateful whenever I receive comments on the articles that I have written on this particular special needs subject. I recently received an insightful comment from a guest with Asperger syndrome on an article I wrote for Suite101.com entitled, Asperger Syndrome and Homework. In it, the person mentioned that playing music helped him or her complete schoolwork.

This got me thinking about how different everyone is. It doesn't matter what type of disorder may be affecting a person, or even if there is a disorder at all. We are all different, and we all have different ways to help us get through our day successfully. I know that for me to concentrate on my writing, I need complete silence!

For parents or teachers of children with high functioning autism and Asperger syndrome, solving a problem may just be a matter of trial and error. If a child is having trouble falling asleep as an example, a parent could try a warm bath, reading in soft lighting, massage therapy, blanket wrapping, books on tape, or relaxing music. If you are teaching a student with Asperger syndrome and sensory issues, you may try seating the child in the front where there are fewer visual distractions, or send him off to deliver books periodically so he can get a sensory break. When an idea works, it can then be incorporated into the routine. But don't count on it working forever! Small adjustments may be a part of the ongoing effort.

Whatever the concerns of the moment are, remember that you are not alone. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported a rise in the prevalence of autism to 1 in every 150 American children (and 1 in every 94 American boys).

Hang in there and keep trying to find what works for your child or student. Or yourself!