How to teach children with Asperger's syndrome in the classroom

Asperger’s syndrome is a type of autism is characterized by rigidity of thought and behavior, limited verbal and non-verbal communication, difficulty with social relationships, motor delays. It requires great effort by parents, teachers, and professionals to help children with Asperger’s grow professional. Here are 10 tips on how to teach children in the classroom setting.

Setting a routine

Students with Asperger’s work best with a particular routine, so it is beneficial for the student to have a clear structure and a set daily routine. When anything happens different from his/her routine he/she may demonstrate stereotype behavior such as rocking, shouting or screaming. When routines need to be changed, provide a written time table showing the daily schedule on their table so that they can be warned of change.
Gaining their attention

Catching the student’s attention before speaking is a way to make sure he/she is listening. Staying within three feet and face the child is important in providing clear visual and auditory information. Also addressing the student individually at all times can help gain their attention.
Speaking clearly

Speaking clearly and repeating important words to the student is a key communication tool. It is important to use unambiguous language as humor/irony (such as “it is raining cats and dogs” can cause confusion.
Teaching “finish”

Teaching what “finished” means and helping the pupil to identify when something has finished and something different has started can help them move onto another activity.
Giving them the break down

Taking large assignments and breaking them down into smaller fragments is more palatable for the students.
Repetition

Students with aspergers syndrome learn best through repeated instructions.
Minimizing distractions within the classroom

Students with aspergers are easily excited by the excess stimuli in the classroom. The teacher should try to reduce the volume and clutter in the classroom which could cause distraction and excess stimulation for the students.
Using Visual cues

Many autistic children are visual learners, so they may learn more effectively with more pictures rather than words.
Protecting them from teasing

It is important to protect the student from teasing at free times, and providing peers with some awareness of his/her particular needs.
Using motivation

Some of the most creative and effective teachers use whatever object might fascinate a child in order to motivate him or her. For example, if a child is obsessed over dogs, then have him practice reading books about dogs, draw dog pictures, and research dogs on the Internet.