Language support key to kids with autism

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Students with autism or Asperger's syndrome often have problems with reading comprehension, writing and spelling, researchers in Sweden said.

Thesis author Jakob Asberg of the University of Gothenburg in Sweden said teachers and parents should be vigilant in observing difficulties with language comprehension, reading and spelling in children and young people with autism, Asperger's syndrome and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

"Pupils with these neuropsychiatric disorders are often reported as having problems with spoken and written activities," Asberg said in a statement."It is important that pupils are offered the support to which they are entitled."

Five studies comprise the thesis. In one study, researchers tested if it was possible for a group of pupils with autism or Asperger's syndrome to improve in understanding the content of stories through structured and concentrated teaching.

The scores of the student improved over four weeks after teachers stressed what reading and listening with understanding actually involves.

In another study of girls with autism or ADHD, it emerged that girls with ADHD frequently have more general problems when it comes to dexterity in writing, Asberg said.