Autism does not have a single set of symptoms that have the same severity for each person. Some children have less severe symptoms. Therefore, some consider those with less-severe cases to be “high-functioning.” The older diagnosis would have been Asperger’s syndrome. However, every child with autism will require some support, regardless of how high functioning they seem to be. If your child has autism, please reach out to EMIT Therapeutics today at 844.983.0240 to learn more about our supportive autism treatment programs in New Jersey.
What Is High-Functioning Autism?
High-functioning autism is one of the many types of autism on the spectrum. Those with this form of autism may seem intellectually similar to their peers. However, they do not have the social skills required to properly navigate through the interpersonal relationships that make up most of life. Therefore, despite their academic abilities, those with high-functioning autism still need help.
High-Functioning Autism Symptoms
The symptoms of high-functioning autism differ from those with other conditions on the spectrum. For instance, children with the high-functioning form have average intelligence and communication development. There are distinct differences, though, between these children and some of their peers.
For instance, while children with high-functioning autism can speak like their peers, they may not grasp subtleties of speech, especially figures of speech or poetic language. For example, saying that “it’s raining cats and dogs” may confuse a child with any of the various types of autism, making them think that pets are falling from the sky.
Second, their language use may seem different in some ways from their peers. Some children with high-functioning autism may use too formal language, speak with too high a pitch, talk too loudly, or use a sing-song voice when talking. These means of speaking still allow the child to communicate with the same words their peers use but with variations that do not always fit the situation.
Third, children with Asperger’s may not pick up quickly on social skills. For instance, they may refuse to make eye contact, not understand sarcasm, have difficulty recognizing gestures, or appear unempathetic. Those with this condition are not cold, though. They may not understand the cues that the speaker would expect another person to pick up.
Lastly, motor skills for most children with high-functioning autism tend to be slightly delayed. Therefore, you may notice that your child appears clumsy or uncoordinated.
Treatment for Children with High-Functioning Autism
Because there are many types of autism on the spectrum and each child has a different set of needs, the treatment plan will need to fit the child. Therefore, the first step of any autism treatment process is to learn about your child and create a specially tailored program for them.
Some programs that might work for your child include an early intervention program for young toddlers or applied behavior analysis therapy. Early intervention focuses on helping your child to make changes while the brain continues to grow. Successful changes at an early stage allow the brain to adapt well to the new skills.
Applied behavior analysis therapy is another treatment option that works well with children of all ages. This form of therapy allows your child to work with the specialist to improve their behaviors. It also uses evidence-based practices to let your child learn better ways of communicating and interacting with others.
Connect with Autism Treatment Specialists at EMIT Therapeutics
Even if your child seems to function well, if they have autism, their differences may make socializing and learning difficult for them. While no cure exists for autism, some therapies can help you and your child. Reach out to us at EMIT Therapeutics at 844.983.0240 or by completing our online contact form. If you know that your child needs treatment from us, use our 15-minute free consultation request form. Within our treatment program, we will design a plan to meet their unique needs. High-functioning autism does not have to hold your child back.
