People with Asperger’s have always been in our midst we just failed to recognize them. Growing up these may have been the kids in your class who were a bit eccentric and had deep interests in such things as bugs, trains, baseball stats, science fiction, or music. They always seemed to come off a little unusual to you. Word choice may sound more like the “little professor” while at the same time they were missing some of the “common sense” information around them. It is not uncommon for those with AS to be less athletic than many of their peers due to awkwardness of movement. However, the ability to concentrate on particular subject areas allows someone with Asperger’s to make great strides in understanding that subject. Many of our great scientists, mathematicians, and writers displayed symptoms of Asperger’s. Our goal is not to change the person with Asperger’s as they have so much to offer, but to help them build social and communication skills that will improve their quality of life.

The Center provides social skills training in group settings to help AS kids learn what others pick up intuitively such as the meaning of emotional expressions, perspective taking, tone of voice, body language, and attention skills. This group setting also allows them to build friendships. Individual help is available for those who need help with anxiety problems, reducing tantrums, anger control, and coping skills. We also provide education for parents, families, teachers, shad- ows, and coaches to create the structure that AS kids thrive in. Symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome ˇ