Fact 7: Bridging Social Gaps – The Role of Training
For many children with AS, social interactions can feel like navigating a complex maze. The unspoken rules, subtle cues, and myriad nuances that come naturally to most can pose significant challenges for them. However, it’s a misconception to think they don’t crave social connections. They do, but the path to these connections might be filled with more hurdles.
Non-verbal cues like body language, tone, or facial expressions can sometimes be enigmatic for these children. A sarcastic comment or a playful jest might be taken literally, leading to confusion. It’s not that they lack understanding; it’s just that they process social information differently.
There’s a growing body of evidence suggesting that structured social training can be beneficial. Programs that focus on teaching social skills, from understanding emotions to learning conversation turn-taking, can be instrumental. It’s like giving them a map for the social maze, enabling smoother interactions.
One effective tool in bridging the social gap is role-playing. By enacting various social scenarios, children with AS get a safe space to practice and understand interactions. This hands-on approach allows them to experience, make mistakes, and learn in a controlled environment, building their confidence for real-world situations.(7)
