Training Social Skills in Children with Asperger’s Syndrome

Key symptoms in individuals with Asperger’s syndrome include:

• Lack of interest or inability to cooperate with groups.
• Impairments in social interaction.
• Language and speech disorders (e.g., pedantic and rigid speech, difficulties in understanding metaphorical meanings).
• Rigid, unchanging routines.
• Narrow and obsessive interests.
• Motor clumsiness (not always present).
• Nonverbal communication problems (e.g., limited facial expressions, difficulty maintaining eye contact).

What can be done to help children with Asperger’s syndrome function more easily in society?

Improving social skills in children with Asperger’s syndrome can begin with:

• Training in indirect (online, phone, etc.) or direct social communication.
• Contact therapy – involving socializing with peers and observing typical behavior patterns.
• Teaching appropriate behaviors for specific social situations (family gatherings, school activities, etc.).
• Developing self-understanding, understanding others, and related social norms, cultural and interpersonal expectations.
• Rehabilitation focusing on empathy, emotional intelligence, and adapting emotionally to the needs and expectations of others.

Therapeutic interventions should also include symbolic and thematic play, both closely related to language skills and the ability to imitate. Children with Asperger’s syndrome often struggle to play in groups and find it difficult to take on different (usually imposed) roles. It is essential to teach children various forms of play slowly but consistently. Starting with activities the child enjoys, such as going to a playground, can help. Initially, the child can go there without other children. Only when they are comfortable can other children (e.g., cousins, preschool or schoolmates) be introduced.

Consistently encouraging the child to interact with a group is crucial. Creating a home gym or play areas can empower them, as a familiar environment can help overcome social challenges (establishing and maintaining social relationships with other children).

Simple and well-known imitation games effectively teach mindfulness. To make it more engaging for the child, thematic masks or costumes can be created together, enhancing the experience.

Teaching the child what to say and when is equally important. Using real-life examples can be the optimal approach.

Modeling two-way interactions is another skill that needs development. Playing games involving showing and guessing can be particularly effective in this regard.

Shared play is one of the most crucial aspects of upbringing. Children with Asperger’s syndrome often engage in play in a strictly defined and schematic manner. Gradually, efforts should be made to break this solitary routine, within the child’s capabilities. For example, if a child enjoys playing with building blocks, providing a large set and encouraging them to build towers and other structures with other children over time can be beneficial. Integration and cooperation will come with time – the key is not to be discouraged by initial failures and to remain consistent in these efforts.