Eddie: I have a 16 year old daughter who has Asperger’s. She is having a lot of social problems. I need her school’s help. What do I need to do?
Social Skills: CHILD WITH ASPERGERS NEEDS HELP
Special Education Law and Advocacy
My son also has Asperger and a peanut allergy. He is socially awkward and has trouble fitting in with his peers. School refuses to address his social issues. He has been rejected by his peers both in the school and in our neighborhood. I want these other kids to include him can I get the school to force this? Can I force the other parents in the neighborhood to include my son?
“Forcing” things on people tends to backfire. But social skills deficits are something that schools have a responsibility to address for students with disabilities.
One other thought. Sometimes there are community support groups that can be helpful. Try calling your county’s mental health association to see if they have one, or know of one. I am constantly amazed at how many buried resources there are in my mid-sized town that are not well publicized.
Chuck is right on target with his answer. I just wanted to mention, though, that sometimes the informal route gives quicker, better results. Sometimes a chat with the school social worker, guidance counselor or principal can get the child some help more quickly. I would start by asking each of these people if they have any social skills groups your daughter could join. For example, there is often something along the lines of a Lunch Bunch that meets once a week. You can also request a parent teacher conference. Each of her teachers could help with this, if you are able to stimulate their empathy and willingness to help. If your daughter is in therapy, the therapist can reach out to the school worker with a phone call, and can follow up with a letter.
Schools are to address a student’s social needs. Let the school know your concern & request an IEP meeting to discuss the need.