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Children with Prader-Willi Syndrome: Information for
School Staff
by Robert H. Wharton, M.D., Karen Levine, Ph.D.; Center for Prader-Willi Syndrome and
Related Disorders Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, MA. Margaret E. Comeau,
Prader-Willi Syndrome Association of New England.This publication is consistent with
the intent of the recent American with Disabilities Act (ADA). Accordingly, we focus
on children, not on disabilities; we focus on what children can do, not on what they
cannot do. We also stress that participation in the mainstream of daily life is a
human right.
This brochure will assist teachers and other school personnel who have a child with
Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) in their class or school. Children with PWS and their
families are the most important resources of information for teachers. Additionally,
however, knowing that certain behavior and learning patters are a part of Prader-Willi
syndrome will assist teachers in maximizing the child's development, and will help them to
not blame themselves when they can't completely "fix" troublesome behaviors.
We will provide background, educational, behavioral, and medical information about
PWS, and outline specific strategies to help children reach their educational and social
potential.
Throughout the discussion of patterns associated with PWS, it is important to note that
parents, brothers and sisters, as well as environmental factors, strongly affect the
development and personality of all children. In addition, other genetic influences
affect the child. for children with Prader-Willi syndrome, the syndrome itself is
only one factor. knowledge about he syndrome can help teachers and families work
together to help the child, teacher and family to feel proud of progress in spite of
ongoing difficulties.
To order, click on the Order Form button, print out the Publications
order form, fill it out and send it to the address printed on the form or call the
National Office at 1-800-926-4797.
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