subject: Asperger and Learning Disabilities [print this page] Asperger and Learning Disabilities Asperger and Learning Disabilities
New Directions for Young Adults
All children look forward to a brighter future, filled with limitless possibilities and the challenge of opening their minds to the limits of their potential. As parents we encourage this belief, understanding that the ability to thrive and grow on their own will make them better people and productive members of society. For most, college and vocational schools begin the transition of taking our children to the next more independent stage of life away from the comforts of home. Yet some children face additional challenges to their independence, such as Aspergers, Autism, and other learning disabilities which can sometimes make the simplest of tasks daunting. Yet with help of some specialized services, a great many of these children can still lead normal productive lives. Their needs may be different from our own, but they are no less able to overcome them than the rest of us. Children with Asperger often have trouble with communicating effectively in social situations, and may seem unable to respond to feelings and expressions of emotion, friendship and camaraderie. Yet most can be driven, highly independent and focused thinkers, able to hold their own in the workplace and in school.
Autism is one of the more serious learning disabilities that can also have physical and emotional demands upon the children, in addition to leaving them in a world of their own. Treatments are varied, and can include diet, rigidly structured routines, smaller and focused class sizes, individual support, speech and occupational therapy. There is no cure for Autism, Asperger, or other learning disabilities, but that does not prevent those who have them from leading productive and meaningful lives.
We as parents can assist these children in many ways, as many resources have been created to raise awareness for the special needs required by children suffering from Aspergers and other learning disabilities. Both the US Autism & Asperger's Association (USAAA) at www.usautism.org and the American Asperger's Association (AAA) at www.americanaspergers.org have detailed information on the definition of Pervasive Development Disorders, as well as links for where you can help.
The New Directions for Young Adults program at is based out of southern Florida http://www.newdirectionsfya.com/ and is dedicated to assisting those with Asperger, Autism, and other learning disabilities such as ADD/ADHD in finding the right college program that will allow them to continue their education and their lives independently, many for the first time. They focus on time management, life management skills such as meal preparation, hygiene, shopping, and many skills that may seem second-nature to most of us.
The curriculum encompasses psychological support, vocational coaching, and psychiatric support as needed. The caring and responsive staff has dedicated their lives to improving each and every student enrolled in the program, and every student is given a plan to maximize the benefits received. They also cater social events to give the students productive and meaningful interactions with their peers.
The Palm Beach Community College , Florida Atlantic University, Digital Media Arts College, and Atlantic Technical Center are just a few of the schools who work closest with New Directions for Young Adults.
Life with a Pervasive Development Disorder is a daunting and formidable task, but it can be managed and overcome by a combination of targeted support, caring professionals, unwavering commitment, staunch dedication, and genuine concern for the welfare of the children involved. With New Directions For Young Adults, there is no child left behind.
