Understanding Asperger's in Children: Signs & Symptoms

Asperger's syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder that often goes undiagnosed for years, because children with the disorder may simply appear "quirky." How can you tell whether your child is marvelously unique, or is marvelously unique and also has Asperger's?

• A child with Asperger's syndrome may be happy in his own little world.

Interpersonal Skills

• A child with Asperger's syndrome has trouble understanding the dynamics of relationships. He may want to play but may not understand taking turns or compromise. He probably won't make eye contact, and may interrupt or dominate conversations.

Empathy and Understanding

• If your child has Asperger's, she may not be able to understand others' feelings or points of view. This does not mean she lacks a conscience or is unfeeling. She is simply grounded in logic: she may not understand why you cry when someone dies, because death is natural, but she will still want you to feel better.

Focus

• Your child may have one or two specific subjects that fascinate him so much that he doesn't show interest in anything else.

Communication

• If she has Asperger's, your child may have an exceptional vocabulary but not understand sarcasm or idioms. Her speech may sound very formal, and she won't pick up on body language or other non-verbal communication.

Cognitive

• Kids with Asperger's syndrome have normal to above-average intelligence. They may become extremely knowledgeable in their areas of interest and are happy to share that knowledge with others.

Physical

• Your child may have poor motor skills and coordination or have a peculiar gait. Kids with Asperger's often walk and run as if they're slightly off-balance.