A type of pervasive development disorder (PDD) Considered to be on the autism spectrum High functioning autism, not affected by race, region or socio-economic status.

Psychiatrist from Vienna, Austria 1944 behavior described as “autistic psychopathy” This pattern included a “lack of empathy, intense absorption in a special interest, clumsy movements, little ability to form friendships and one-sided conversations.” Opened a school for children with autistic psychopathy Exhibited features of the condition named after him Died in 1980 before his work was acknowledged

Exact cause not known Tends to run in families Genetic disorder (passed from parent) Frontal lobe and posterior cingulate gyrus impaired

Problems with social skills Eccentric or repetitive behaviors Unusual preoccupations Can’t read people Can’t understand humor Monotone voice Clumsy ADHD Sleep disorders Lack of eye contact Few facial expressions One sided long-winded conversations Limited range of interests Communication problems No empathy Skilled or talented in one area Digestion problems

Abilify-treats irritability Luvox-treats depression Zyprexa-treats repetitive behaviors Risperdal-treats agitation Melatonin Ritalin-treats ADHD Vitamin B-6 Magnesium Vitamin C Omega 3 fatty acids Gluten Free-Casein Free Diets

Structured education to meet child’s needs Behavior modification techniques Speech, physical and occupational therapy Psychologists/Behavior Therapists Family Therapy Autism Schools Parenting Classes

 Autism Assessment And Treatment Center  Autism Council of Utah  HOPE a Parent to Parent Network  Utah Autism Research Program at U of U  Specialized Education Programming Services  Redwood Learning Center  Carmen Pingree School  Spectrum Academy

Sensory Needs – Seat them away from distractions, avoid loud noises, give them calming objects or play soothing music. Hyper-focus – Let them show the class their area of expertise, help them envision their future and expand on their preferred subject. Poor Executive Function – Visual learners, may need graphic organizers and work charts to keep on task. Low Frustration Level – A time timer, have them run errands, write or draw about what frustrates them and give them little homework.

Maintain a consistent schedule Learn about your child and the disorder Find a team of trusted professionals Help others help your child Help your child turn their obsession into their passion Find local support

 Race to the Finish Line – Straws and cheese ball race track  Play with Slime – Borax, water, PVA and food coloring  Marble Race – Marble building set and marbles

Aitken, K. J. (2009). Dietary Interventions in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Philadelphia, PA: Jessica Kingsley Publishers Griffin, S., Sandler D. (2010). Motivate to Communicate! 300 Games and Activities for Your Child with Autism. Philadelphia, PA: Jessica Kingsley Publishers Myles, B. S., Southwick, J. (2005). Asperger Syndrome and Difficult Moments. Shawnee Mission, Kansas: Autism Asperger Publishing Company Whitman, T. L., Dewitt, N. (2011). Key Learning Skills for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. London, England: Jessica Kingsley Publishers (November 18, 2010). Asperger’s Syndrome. Retrieved from