Children with high-functioning autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), often face unique challenges when it comes to education, social interaction, communication, and behavior. The term “spectrum” refers to the wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of ability in functioning that can occur in people with ASD.
While every child on the autism spectrum is different, there are common characteristics and educational approaches that can be beneficial for children with high-functioning autism.
Interesting fact: ASD can be diagnosed at any age, but symptoms generally appear in early childhood (often within the first two years of life).
Types of High-Functioning Autism
- Asperger’s Syndrome
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
- High-Functioning Autism.
Children with most forms of ASD typically have average to above-average intelligence and may excel in certain areas of academics, such as math or science, while simultaneously struggling with social interactions and communication skills.
Signs of High-Functioning Autism
Signs can vary but may include difficulty understanding social cues, limited eye contact, repetitive behaviors or speech, intense interests in specific topics, and sensory sensitivities. Children with high-functioning autism may also have difficulty expressing emotions or understanding the emotions of others.
Other signs of autism spectrum disorder include a devotion to routine or order, repetitive habits, and a relentless hyper-focus on a desire, subject, or need. Additional repetitive behaviors include rocking, twirling, flapping hands, or arranging objects in a particular order.
Interesting fact: According to the CDC, a child born in America today has a 2.8 percent chance of being diagnosed with ASD.
Educational Approaches for Children with ASD
If you suspect that your child is on the spectrum, you will want to seek a professional diagnosis and find a school that uses a combination of individualized support, social skills training, select education modalities, and behavioral interventions. Schools that are dialed into children with high-functioning autism offer additional support like visual schedules, structured routines, and opportunities for practicing social skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Interesting fact: ASD symptoms in girls may be more nuanced and difficult to notice, leading to a delayed – or completely missed — diagnosis.
High-Functioning Autism Case Study
Let’s review a case study of a high-functioning autistic boy that we’ll call Alex. This youngster illustrates the importance of early intervention and specialized education. Alex was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of five and struggled with making friends and following social cues.
Through a combination of speech therapy, social skills groups, and behavior interventions, Alex learned how to navigate social interactions and communicate effectively with his peers. With continued support and understanding from his teachers and family, Alex was able to thrive in school and develop strong friendships.
High-functioning autism is not an officially recognized medical term, but many people use it when researching or discussing how much support someone on the autism spectrum may need. Still, it is important to understand that a diagnosis, early intervention, and getting specialized help in the right school is the key to ensuring your child’s success.