Building Resilience: Parenting Children with Asperger’s and ADHD

When your child is diagnosed with ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Asperger's Syndrome, your parenting journey will feel a bit more challenging. Parents navigating through these somewhat complicated mental health conditions need all the help and support they need.

So, let’s explore what Asperger's and ADHD are, along with their common challenges, significant differences, and similar symptoms. More importantly, we’ll delve into Asperger's and ADHD diagnosis and how science-backed natural solutions can empower you and your child to thrive.

What is Asperger's Syndrome?

Asperger's Syndrome is named after the Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger. This condition is a unique corner of the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) has streamlined the classification of autism into a single comprehensive category known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). 

This new category consolidates and replaces all the previously distinct disorders within the spectrum, including Asperger's Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs), and traditional autism. This change in the diagnostic criteria placed Asperger's Syndrome a part of the Autism Spectrum Disorder, effectively making the term Asperger's Syndrome obsolete.

Autistic people typically possess average or above-average intelligence, but they may struggle with social interaction and communication. Even so, autistic kids often have a special talent or intense interest.  

Also referred to as high-functioning autism, kids with Asperger's bring a kaleidoscope of perspectives to the table. They show a deep, unwavering focus on their passions that can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and innovations. 

Their fascination could be with mathematics, music, or insects. Whatever it is, the intense interests of these autistic children can blossom into lifelong careers and contribute to the richness of our world. 

What Does ADHD Look Like?

Now, let’s talk about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD for short. ADHD is a condition characterized by attention deficits, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Children with ADHD might have trouble staying focused, following instructions, or sitting still. 

Many kids with ADHD possess boundless energy ready to take on the world. But at times, it also causes them a ton of frustration because it's difficult for them to pay attention or sit at a desk.

However, that whirlwind of energy can be harnessed into an incredible force for good. With the right guidance and support, children with ADHD can channel their energy into creative endeavors, sports, or other activities that capitalize on their enthusiasm and zest for life. They often possess a refreshing candor and an ability to think outside the box, making them natural innovators 

Common Challenges Faced by Children with Asperger's and ADHD

Autistics struggle to make eye contact and decipher social cues. The back and forth of conversation with peers is often their greatest challenge. A child with ADHD, on the other hand, is unable to concentrate in school. These challenges are very real. 

Autism can lead to social difficulties and repetitive behaviors, while ADHD can disrupt executive function, making tasks like organization and planning feel like climbing a mountain. Here’s a more detailed list of the common challenges faced by children with these conditions: 

Common Autism Challenges:

• Social Interaction Difficulties
• Communication Issues
• Repetitive Behaviors
• Sensory Sensitivities
• Difficulty with Transitions
• Special Interests
• Executive Functioning
• Emotional Regulation
• Difficulty in Understanding Others' Perspectives
• Bullying and Social Isolation
• Academic Challenges
• Anxiety and Depression

Common ADHD Challenges:

• Attention problems
• Hyperactivity
• Impulsivity
• Difficulty staying focused
• Trouble following instructions
• Poor time management
• Forgetfulness
• Disorganization
• Impaired executive function
• Academic challenges
• Social difficulties
• Risk of emotional and behavioral issues

Understanding the Unique Needs of Children with Asperger's and ADHD

Children with autism and ADHD have unique needs as no two cases are the same. Despite common myths, each child's experience is different. Tailoring your approach to their challenges and strengths is key to unlocking their potential.

Children with autism and ADHD may struggle with self-esteem and identity issues. They might notice their differences from their peers and struggle to fit in. Creating an environment that fosters self-acceptance and helps them understand that being neurodiverse is a unique and valuable aspect of their identity. Encouraging their self-expression and reinforcing their strengths can play a significant role in building their self-esteem.

Building and maintaining friendships can be a complex endeavor for children with Asperger's and ADHD. They may need support in understanding social dynamics and developing the skills necessary for forming meaningful relationships. Facilitating social opportunities in structured and supportive settings can be a great way to help them practice and refine their social skills.

Girls with autism are often diagnosed later in life for a variety of reasons but it is theorized that boy’s coordination issues are more observable. 

As children with Asperger's and ADHD transition into adolescence and adulthood, it's essential to assist them in developing skills for independent living, such as time management, self-advocacy, and decision-making. The preparation can empower them to become self-sufficient and lead fulfilling lives.

Strategies for Supporting Children with Asperger's and ADHD at Home

Parents are on the front line in the battle against the challenges posed by Asperger's and ADHD. Here are some comprehensive strategies to help create a supportive and nurturing environment:

1. Create a Clear and Consistent Routine

Establishing a daily routine provides structure and predictability, which can be comforting for children with Asperger's and ADHD. Make use of visual schedules and timers to help them understand and anticipate daily activities.

2. Make Visual Supports

Visual aids such as visual schedules, social stories, and visual cues can enhance communication skills and understanding. Use these tools to explain tasks, expectations, and transitions.

3. Build a Sensory-Friendly Environment

Children with Asperger's and ADHD may have sensory input sensitivities. Tailor their environment by minimizing sensory triggers. Provide sensory-friendly tools like weighted blankets or fidget toys, and ensure comfortable lighting and noise levels.

4. Break Tasks into Manageable Steps

For children with ADHD, breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can help them stay on track and complete assignments or chores more efficiently. Provide clear instructions for each step.

5. Encourage Special Interests

Embrace your child's special interests, as they can be a source of motivation and engagement. These interests can also be a bridge to learning other skills. For example, if your child loves dinosaurs, you can use this interest to teach reading or math concepts.

6. Foster Effective Communication

Use clear and direct communication. Listen actively to their concerns and feelings, and encourage them to express themselves. Be patient and avoid overloading them with information or instructions.

7. Promote Positive Reinforcement

Implement a reward system to reinforce positive behaviors and accomplishments. Offer praise, tokens, or small rewards for completing tasks or following routines. Be consistent with the rewards to maintain motivation.

8. Teach Time Management Techniques

Teach your child to use timers and calendars to help them manage their time more effectively. Set realistic expectations for what can be accomplished within specific timeframes.

9. Provide Homework Support

Children with Asperger's and ADHD may struggle with homework. So, create a quiet, organized space for them to work, and provide regular breaks. Check their agenda or planner to ensure assignments are recorded and completed.

10. Support Emotion Regulation

Teach emotional regulation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness. Encourage them to identify and express their emotions and provide a safe space for discussing their feelings.

11. Integrate Physical Activities

Incorporate regular physical activity into their routine. Exercise can help children with ADHD release excess energy and improve focus and self-regulation.

12. Request Professional Support

Consider seeking professional support from therapists, counselors, or occupational therapists who specialize in working with children with Asperger's and ADHD. These health professionals can provide valuable strategies and guidance.

13. Prioritize Parental Self-Care

Caring for a child with Asperger's or ADHD can be demanding. Don't forget to prioritize your own well-being. Take breaks, seek support from other parents or support groups, and remember that self-care is not selfish; it's essential for your child's long-term well-being.

Therapeutic Interventions and Treatment Options for Children with ADHD and Asperger's Syndrome

Therapeutic interventions, early diagnosis, and treatments are vital components of supporting children with Asperger's and ADHD. These interventions aim to address specific challenges and help children develop essential skills for managing their conditions. Here's an in-depth look at some of the key therapeutic approaches:

Social Skills Training

Children with Asperger's often struggle with social interactions. Social skills training helps them understand social cues, take turns in conversations, make eye contact, and develop friendships. It involves role-playing, video modeling, and guided practice in real-life situations.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is valuable for children with ADHD, helping them manage impulsivity, improve attention, and regulate emotions. It teaches them to recognize and challenge negative thought patterns and develop effective problem-solving skills.

One study shows that children in intervention groups exhibited noteworthy reductions in parent-reported anxiety symptoms during the follow-up period, along with a significant improvement in the child's capacity to employ positive strategies in anxiety-inducing situations. Several notable distinctions between the two interventions indicate the advantages of parent involvement (Sofronoff et al., 2005).

Sensory Integration Therapy

This therapy is particularly useful for children with sensory sensitivities, common in both Asperger's and ADHD. Sensory integration therapy helps them process sensory information more effectively, reducing sensory-related stress and meltdowns.

Neurofeedback 

Neurofeedback is an emerging therapeutic approach that has shown promise in the treatment of different conditions, including Asperger's Syndrome and ADHD. This technique, also known as EEG biofeedback, involves real-time monitoring of brain activity and providing feedback to individuals to help them regulate their brain function.

One study evaluated 150 people with Asperger’s after 40 to 60 sessions of neurofeedback. Results show a reduction in symptoms associated with Asperger's and ADHD, including improved attention, reduced anxiety, and enhanced social functioning, alongside improved academic and intellectual performance (Thompson et al., 2009).

PEMF                            

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy is an emerging complementary and alternative treatment that involves the use of electromagnetic fields to improve health and well-being. Many individuals and practitioners have explored its potential benefits in managing Asperger's Syndrome and ADHD symptoms. 

Nutrition Supplementation

Nutrition supplementation is an area of interest for individuals with Asperger's Syndrome and ADHD and their families. While supplements should not replace a balanced diet or evidence-based treatments, some dietary interventions, such as Magnesium supplements, may complement a comprehensive approach to managing these conditions.

Recent studies revealed a notably high occurrence of iron deficiency in children with autism, potentially exacerbating their language difficulties, nonverbal communication, and behavioral challenges (Latif et al., 2002).

The BrainBehaviorResetTM Program offers a comprehensive treatment plan for Asperger’s, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental disorders. It integrates science-backed and integrative solutions for lasting results, with the need for any ADHD medication.

Parent Action Steps

☐ Educate yourself about your child’s Asperger's and ADHD diagnosis.
☐ Evaluate your child's needs with medical professionals.
☐ Embrace holistic treatments and support.
☐ Implement recommended dietary adjustments or lifestyle modifications.
☐ Participate in parent training and support programs.
☐ Join a support network with other parents who have children with similar conditions.
☐ Sharing experiences and insights can be immensely valuable.
☐ Keep track of your child's progress.
☐ Be an advocate for your child's needs.
☐ Maintain a positive and patient outlook.
☐ Don't forget to prioritize your well-being.
☐ Take this ADHD Quiz to know if your child has ADHD or something else.
☐ Use our Solutions Matcher to get personalized treatment for your child.

Citations

Latif, A., Heinz, P., & Cook, R. (2002). Iron Deficiency in Autism and Asperger Syndrome. Autism, 6(1), 103–114. https://doi.org/10.1177/1362361302006001008

Sofronoff, K., Attwood, T., & Hinton, S. (2005). A randomised controlled trial of a CBT intervention for anxiety in children with Asperger syndrome. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 46(11), 1152–1160. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2005.00411.x

Thompson, L., Thompson, M., & Reid, A. (2009). Neurofeedback Outcomes in Clients with Asperger’s Syndrome. Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback, 35(1), 63–81. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10484-009-9120-3