Problems Relating to Education

The education skills problems found in many children with a 22q11.2 deletion are different to those seen in children with other learning problems. The areas which they find difficult and the way these difficulties can be addressed are often different to the approaches commonly applied by schools and are specific to these children.

It is important to note that education means social skills and the ways children learn to interact with each other which will then stay with them into adulthood; as well as learning the curriculum. It is also easy to overlook the emotional process of education (growing-up).

The way each child is affected by the 22q11.2 deletion varies widely; so every child will not exhibit all of the traits noted here, but some will be in most of the children.

Problems with education and schooling are probably the most common areas that parents experience. It is generally noted that GP's do not have an awareness of the deletion and therefore it should not be surprising that educational professionals are also not aware of the features of a 22q11.2 deletion and most schools will need to be provided with information.

It is vital that every child is monitored and that any signs of difficulty are identified early on and the appropriate intervention given. Whatever the child's difficulties there are ways of encouraging and supporting learning.

Parental support is essential, along with tutoring and extra help to make the most of their educational experiences. Occupational therapy is important for fine motor skills.