In 2013 Asperger’s Syndrome became part of the umbrella disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). It is a developmental disorder, and children with Asperger’s have trouble relating socially, and their behavior and thinking patterns can be repetitive and rigid. Regardless of the term used or where it is placed on the autism spectrum, let’s discover how pediatric therapy helps those with Asperger’s Syndrome.
Milder End of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Asperger’s is described as being on the mild end of ASD. Those with the disorder have mostly normal language and intelligence.
Common behaviors include the following:
- Difficulty with social situations
- Restricted interests
- Like uniformity
Their strengths include focus and persistence, aptitude for recognizing patterns, and attention to detail.
Challenges they face include the following:
- Sensitivity to lights, sounds, and tastes
- Difficulty having conversations
- Uncoordinated movements and clumsiness
- Anxiety and depression
How Pediatric Therapy Helps
Asperger’s is not a condition that can be cured, but it can be treated with an individualized plan including different therapies and medications.
Social Skills Training And Speech-Language Therapy
Most of these children don’t have trouble with language, but they may not know how to express thoughts and feelings appropriately. These therapies can help them to learn ways to interact with peers, useful ways to improve communication skills, and to recognize gestures and figures of speech. In addition, it can help to improve eye contact.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
This is a kind of talk therapy used to help a child regulate their emotions and impulses. It also can help them deal with anxiety and depression by replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts as well as representing their emotions through colors.
Sensory Integration/Occupational Therapy
Sensory integration helps children stabilize their senses. It can also help them to perform exercises to improve balance, eye-hand coordination, and their responses to sounds or touches.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy addresses the awkwardness that comes with Asperger’s. A problematic gait and lack of balance are common issues. This can help your child learn to kick a ball, walk up and down the stairs, and ride a bike.
Effective treatments improve how children with Asperger’s cope with their social challenges, impulses, emotions, motor skill deficits, and other behaviors negatively affecting their lives.
Contact TEAM Pediatric Therapy at (321) 415-3558 for an individualized treatment plan in Greater Orlando for your child with Asperger’s Syndrome.
Sources:
My ASD Child: What is the best therapy for a child with Aspergers? (myaspergerschild.com)
Treatment for People With Asperger’s Syndrome | Everyday Health
