· Asperger Syndrome is a pervasive developmental disorder (PDD,) and is on the autism spectrum.

· The disorder is most prevalent in boys, though girls do have it as well.

· Asperger Syndrome doesn’t affect intelligence, language or cognitive skills. It does affect the way that the Asperger sufferer interacts socially.

· Though it was discovered by Hans Asperger, as Swiss scientist during WWII, it wasn’t recognized in North America until 1994.

· The three major areas of difficulty are: problems communicating, socializing and (sometimes) lack of imagination.

· Asperger children excel in academics, but have trouble on the playground and working in groups.

· They also have trouble with overwhelming emotions and need a quiet place to go when they are feeling overwhelmed.

· Those who suffer from Asperger syndrome dislike change intensely and it can turn their world into chaos. Something as simple as rearranging furniture can send them into a major meltdown.

· Asperger sufferers are very comfortable with repetitive routines, but can be taught to cope with change if they are forewarned.

· Asperger sufferers dislike surprises. They like to know what’s coming so they can be prepared.

· Children who have Asperger syndrome do not respond, nor do they understand, body language or facial expressions. Those skills have to be taught.

· Children with Asperger syndrome have trouble making friends and retaining friendships. They are labeled as odd and eccentric. They are often teased and become loners to avoid confrontations with their peers.

· Asperger sufferers take the spoken word literally and don’t understand metaphors or sarcasm unless taught.

· Asperger syndrome is a disorder that is largely misunderstood as bad or inappropriate behavior.

· Those who suffer from Asperger syndrome need instructions broken down into small increments. Instead of saying, “Set the table,” you will need to say, “Put the plates, knives, forks, spoons, glasses and cups on the table.” When we look at a tapestry, we see the entire thing. When they look at a tapestry, they see every thread.

· Those suffering from Asperger Syndrome are often obsessed with things. As children, these things will change. As adults, they usually stick to one obsession.

· Asperger children can be taught to integrate into society.

· It’s suspected that Thomas Jefferson, Mozart and Albert Einstein suffered from Asperger Syndrome. These people are geniuses.

by Mary M. Alward