Autism Soccer: Differences between Asperger’s and Autistic children

Both of these conditions affect children differently, and knowing how each develop can help you understand your child.

Today’s communities focus on the task at hand: to provide a better place for those who struggle in life. Overall, the mission has succeeded for the most part. Autism and Asperger’s share the spectrum and have some similarities, but they are not the same. Even though many individuals are diagnosed with ASD, there’s still confusion about which condition is which. Early diagnosis isn’t enough: the differences must be explained so they can be fully understood as different disorders.

Asperger

Children with Asperger Syndrome show difficulties in social engagement. They find it challenging to identify and show their feelings. Another feature they show is the lack of eye contact or avoidance, meaning they end up having difficulties to understand and read the faces and gestures of other people.

Autism

Autism presents itself at an early age. It is most noticeable because children expose unusual behavior compared to neurotypical peers. Autistic children avoid social engagement almost entirely. Unless they are high-functioning (which is a condition similar to Asperger’s) it might be hard to communicate effectively with them. Another characteristic of autism is a repetitive behavior in their daily routine and the necessity to follow schedules.

Are they really different?

So far, it seems as these two are not that different after all. The behavior expressed by both Autistics and Asperger’s individuals tends to confuse, and more if we face a case of high functioning autism.

The fundamental difference between these two comes at early stages of growth: whereas autistic children have language's delays and difficulties, Asperger’s show no signs of delay in language development whatsoever.

Later on, children with AS tend to be socially awkward, which isn’t quite the same compared to their Autistics peers. Why and which patterns AS follow? There’s isn’t a clear answer, but they’re unquestionably different in certain behavioral aspects.

Research has come a long way in the attempt to understand what makes Autism what it is and why there are so many similarities with other cognitive disorders. The Autism Spectrum still puzzles scientists today, but there’s yet to be done regarding research and awareness of this condition.

On a brighter note, Autism Soccer happily opens their doors for children with developmental difficulties in manners of social interaction and communication. These challenges and complications are worked on during their soccer practices. Don’t worry! Your children won’t get hurt since they have professionals that will make sure everything comes out right. All you have to do now is give them a call!