Does Speech Therapy Help Children with Asperger's Syndrome

What is Asperger's Syndrome?

Asperger’s Syndrome is a developmental disorder that is classified as a form of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Individuals with this diagnosis tend to have average or above-average intelligence but often struggle with social interactions. 

People with Asperger’s Syndrome may have difficulties understanding the emotions and body language of others. They tend to be very passionate about certain topics/subjects and center their conversations around them. Someone with Asperger’s may be incredibly book-smart, prefer routine, and have difficulty managing their own emotions. When it comes to speech, they may have less than typical speech sounds, often sounding flat, high-pitched, quiet, loud, robotic, or choppy. 

With early diagnoses and treatment people with Asperger’s Syndrome tend to live a typical life. Treatment for Asperger’s Syndrome may include

• Medication
• Social Skills Training
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
• Special Education Supports
• Speech Therapy

Asperger's vs Autism - What is the Difference

At one time, Asperger’s Syndrome was considered its own diagnosis. It is presently under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), however, some still refer to the condition as Asperger’s Syndrome for individuals with autism who have no language delays and average or above-average intelligence. A study in 2024 notes that 11.3 in every 1000 people in the United States has been diagnosed with ASD. Boys are three to four times more likely to be diagnosed with Asperger’s than girls. 

What is the Cause of Asperger’s Syndrome?

The exact cause of Asperger’s Syndrome is unknown however research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors likely play a role in its development. Asperger’s Syndrome is not a result of a child’s upbringing or poor parenting. 

How is Asperger’s Syndrome Diagnosed?

Most cases of Asperger’s Syndrome are diagnosed between the ages of five and nine. Typically, the child’s parents, teachers, or caregivers notice challenges with the child’s social interactions and bring it up with their doctor. A combination of observations from specialists, diagnostic tools, and questionnaires helps secure the diagnosis.

How Does Asperger’s Syndrome Impact Speech and Communication Skills?

Although children with Asperger’s Syndrome may not have speech delays, they often face challenges with the social (pragmatic) aspects of language and communication. Their voices may sound more robotic than their peers, often sounding flat, high-pitched, quiet, loud, or choppy. 

People with ASD may appear as socially awkward. Their intense interest in topics that mean a lot to them can be both a strength and a challenge since conversations may center around those topics. If the listener is not interested, the individual may not have the knowledge to move on to another subject as they struggle to understand facial expressions, body language, and social cues. 

Individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome have difficulty understanding figurative language, such as metaphors, sarcasm, and jokes. They tend to interpret language literally, leading to misunderstandings in social situations. 

Does Speech Therapy Help Children With Asperger's Syndrome?

Speech therapy can greatly help children and adults with Asperger’s Syndrome. Speech Therapists work with individuals to develop a unique treatment plan to fit their needs. The primary speech therapy goal for children with Asperger’s Syndrome is typically to improve their social (pragmatic) communication skills. 

Early exposure to speech therapy while the child’s brain is still developing is proven to be the most beneficial. Speech therapists can work with the child to improve their communication skills. They may work with them to understand figurative language as well as social cues and body language. If the child tends to speak robotically or has an abnormal speech tone, speech therapists have a toolbox of exercises to help with that! Some people with Asperger’s Syndrome have difficulty taking turns in conversation and may dominate the discussion with their own interests. A speech therapist can work with the individual to navigate conversations effectively, giving others a chance to speak as well. 

Children with Asperger’s Syndrome can do well in school and continue to thrive throughout their lives. While there is no cure for ASD, helping someone who has this disorder communicate more effectively will help them greatly in social situations. 

If you are interested in learning more about speech therapy for someone with Asperger’s, schedule your free introductory call today!