The ability to control the environment for a child with Asperger's in a homeschool setting is a definite benefit. Adjust noise, lighting and other physical elements as needed for your child. Some parents of children with Asperger's also have their child on special diets which are much easier to maintain in the home setting. Being able to set and stay with a predictable schedule also helps children with Asperger's learn and cope.
Children with Asperger's often want to study one subject in-depth before moving on to another. This doesn't work well in a typical school setting, where the point is to provide a basis of knowledge on a variety of subjects, with additional details filling in the blanks over several years of schooling. However, in the homeschool setting, unit studies can be used to teach subject manner in a way that naturally appeals to these children. For those working close to grade level, computer-based instruction may provide the right combination of structure and challenge for these children.
Most children learn social skills naturally through experience. For children with Asperger's however, this is a skill that must be taught and practiced extensively. These children may have trouble understanding social cues and reading facial expressions, often reacting inappropriately to a given situation. Direct instruction through books, DVDs and other educational materials is recommended. Social skills groups meet regularly specifically to allow their children to practice appropriate social skills. It is vital that these groups be well-monitored to assure that positive skills are being learned, instead of negative ones being reinforced.
Depending on your child's unique strengths and weaknesses, he may need additional help from professionals outside of the home setting. Speech, occupational and physical therapists are often a part of life for children with Asperger's syndrome.Therapy can be found through the local public schools, hospitals, charitable organizations or private clinics.
Parents homeschooling their child with Asperger's face much the same challenges as other homeschooling families with the addition of others. Time is a scarce commodity for these parents, who often have to plan around other children's schedules and schooling in addition to appointments with doctors and therapists. Teaching some subjects may prove challenging, as the child resists learning about topics she doesn't naturally find intriguing. Making time for social interaction and practice is vitally important for these children as well, adding another unusual dimension to the normal challenges of homeschooling.
Both parents and children benefit from the support of others dealing with similar issues. Homeschooling support groups are available in most states, with local groups often meeting on a monthly basis. These groups may offer recreational activities, field trips and classes which provides opportunities for social skills practice for your child. The National Challenged Homeschoolers Associated Network, or NATHHAN, provides a variety of information for parents homeschooling their special needs children.