Teaching Tips for Children with Aspergers

Here are the main teaching strategies to keep in mind if you have an Aspergers (High-Functioning Autism) student:



The Complete Guide to Teaching Students with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism

Comments

Anonymous said…
Hi Mark,

I stumbled upon a website called My Aspergers Child and began reading. Much of what I read was directed towards parents. Then I saw your books and read a little about you. I writing to you today to ask if there is anything out there for teachers.

I am a seventh grade teacher. School has just begun and I am in a new building this year. I've had a student assigned to my caseload who was newly diagnosed with Aspergers one year ago (sixth grade). They told me he is somewhat of an anomaly; however, after some reading, he sounds more typical than not. Very intelligent, constant power struggles, meltdowns, and everything else mentioned. Frankly, district cadre and those that have worked with him have made me very nervous.

Here is my dilemma. They wanted me to "get to know" this kid and present and "go over" his plan with him. His "plan" involved an office for when he has a meltdown. Well, my gut feeling said not to get in his face and tell him how it is going to be when he doesn't even know me yet. He HATES the idea of a plan for this year, and so far, he is doing exactly what he is supposed to do. Furthermore, to me, an office sounds like more of a positive reinforcement for bad behavior rather than a consequence, because they tell me he likes it. I'm a bit stumped and want to help.

I didn't know if I should buy a book written for parents or not. Oh, and by the way, his mom is a behavior therapist and a single parent. Just looking for a little direction please. I need to build a relationship with this student so he can be successful but I just don't think administration is giving sound advice. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Thanks for your time,

Francine
August 18, 2011 at 7:40 AM
Anonymous said…
Try here for starters:

http://www.myoutofcontrolteen.com/teaching-aspergers-students.html

Mark Hutten
August 18, 2011 at 7:40 AM
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