Asperger's Syndrome, also referred to as Aperger's Disorder, is one form of Pervasive Development Disorder, or PDD. PDD's are a category of conditions that are characterized by delays in basic skill development, such as communication and socialization. The condition was named for Hans Asperger, and Austrian doctor who first explained the syndrome in 1944.

While Asperger's Syndrome does have similarities to autism, there are a few key differences.
Children who have been diagnosed with Aperger's Syndrome usually function at a higher level than those with autism. They have a normal level of intelligence, and language skills that are near normal levels. Issues with communication tend to develop as the child ages.
The precise symptoms of Asperger's Syndrome can differ somewhat, and can be classified from mild to severe. These symptoms include the following:

Issues with Socialization: Children with Aperger's Syndrome often have problems interacting normally and appear awkward in social settings. They usually have few or no friends.
Behavior that is Repetitive or Eccentric: Children diagnosed with this condition often have movements that are repetitive, or somewhat unusual. These can include rocking, or twisting of the hands or fingers.

Problems with Coordination: Children with Aperger's Syndrome often appear awkward or clumsy.

Interests that are Limited in Scope: Children may become obsessed with just one or two areas of interest such as dinosaurs, weather, or even schedules.

Difficulty with Communication: Children with Aperger's Syndrome may have a hard time speaking with others or may not be able to make or hold eye contact. He or she may also have problems understanding body language and making facial gestures or expressions.
Exceptionally Talented or Skilled: Many children with this condition are quite talented or skilled in one certain area such as math or music.

Ritual Development: Children with Aperger's Syndrome tend to develop certain rituals that they cannot give up, such as doing things a precise order.

While the exact cause of Aperger's Syndrome is not known, there does seem to be a connection to genetics. The condition has been shown to run in families and is often inherited from a parent. Even though children with the condition do face difficulties, there are specialized learning environments, such as an Asperger's school that can help them to flourish.

These schools are classified as learning difficulty schools and make use of special teaching methods in order to reach children and provide them with the tools needed to help them overcome obstacles and succeed in life.