by Dawn Marcotte

Created on: August 17, 2010   Last Updated: August 18, 2010

Asperger’s syndrome is classified as a form of high functioning autism, but every child is different in how they are affected by this disability. The ability of the brain to properly process inputs such as touch, taste, smell and sound can cause difficulties for these individuals. This sensory integration problem in addition to a non-verbal learning disability can make social situations a nightmare. Think of trying to interact with your world if you could only communicate through a computer screen. If there was no voice inflection, body language or other cues to help you understand what the other person was trying to tell you. This is as close as we could come to truly understanding how these children interact with others.

These children need to be taught how to interact with peers and adults and the non-verbal cues that others use without thinking about it. The earlier these behaviors can be taught, the better. Teach students about eye contact, body space, voice control and body language to enable them to interact effectively with their peers and adults. Be direct, even to the point of rudeness when interacting with these children. They do not draw inferences or understand subtle reminders.

Eye Contact

This is possibly the first indication that the child may have problems with non- verbal communication. These children are reluctant to look you in the eye when you are speaking to them. They may not even be facing you when they talk, and yet expect you to understand they are having a conversation with you. Be direct with these children and tell them exactly what you expect. "Face toward me and look me in the eye when you are speaking or listening to me." Repeat this directive every time you interact with them and practice daily. If possible practice several times a day until the child is able to look you in the eye at least 80% of the time. Teach them that if they are having a long conversation it is okay to look between the other person's eyes or slightly above them if they become uncomfortable, but they should not turn their head to look away as this signals disinterest or the end of the conversation. Once this skill has been mastered monitor it to ensure it is maintained.

Body Space

The amount of distance between individuals who are speaking differs by culture. Teach the student the appropriate distance by modeling the behavior with them and practicing. When interacting with them, tell them they are too close or too far away and have them move to the

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