What Are the Characteristics of Asperger’s Within the Autism Spectrum?

It’s natural to wonder how your child’s autism diagnosis aligns with Asperger’s, now part of the autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

 

Asperger’s traits often include challenges with social interactions, like difficulty reading social cues or maintaining conversations, paired with intense interests in specific topics.

 

Many kids show strong verbal skills but struggle with nonverbal communication, like eye contact, and may prefer routines or repetitive behaviors. Sensory sensitivities, like discomfort with certain textures, are also common.

 

Since Asperger’s is no longer a separate diagnosis, an ASD evaluation would focus on these traits and support needs.

 

Discuss with your child’s doctor or therapist to clarify where they fall on the spectrum and tailor therapies like social skills groups or OT.

 

VillageED’s articles offer great insights on understanding autism traits: https://www.villageed.org/articles.