Redbridge SERC

Microcephaly

Description

  • Microcephaly is a medical condition in which the circumference of the head is smaller than normal because the brain has not developed properly or has stopped growing.
  • It is associated with other conditions or occurs on its own.
  • Some children with microcephaly will have normal intelligence and a head that will grow bigger,but many have associated difficulties.
  • There is a wide spectrum of associated difficulties, you will need to ascertain how it affects that particular child and how they impact upon their learning, independence and communication.

Fact sheets

Training / Help

SEaTSS can support students with this condition.

To refer to SEATSS please use this link:

https://eforms.redbridge.gov.uk/single-point-of-access-referral-form-for-education-support/

Videos

Screenshot for video: Microcephaly awareness film

Microcephaly awareness film

A short awareness film made by www.childrenwithmicro.org

Screenshot for video: A simple explanation of acquired microcephaly

A simple explanation of acquired microcephaly

Zev Gershon MD explains about; cerebral palsy and acquired microcephaly how microcephaly can cause cerebral Palsy.

Screenshot for video: Microcephaly awareness

Microcephaly awareness

Video to raise awareness of microcephaly (small head/brain), which is a neurological disorder that is more common than autism. 2 1/2% of the entire population is affected by microcephaly - less …

Learning Aids

Twinkl Website great resources

Twinkl Website great resources

Available from: Twinkl resources

Highly recommended This is a great site with great clear resources for Literacy, Numeracy, Assessment, Language, Rewards, Visual timetable, Curriculum areas

Illustrations

A collection of Microcephaly images

A collection of Microcephaly images

This link provides a collection of illustrations relating to Microcephaly. http://www.childrenwithmicro.org/ 
Full Size image

Source: http://uk.images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?_adv_prop=image&fr=chr-nectar&sz=all&va=microcephaly

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the educational implications for students who have Microcephaly?
    • Pupils with Microcephaly can present in a very varied way.
    • The difficulties associated with Microcephaly can require various levels of support in different areas.
    • Pupils with microcephaly can present as having very different needs.
    • If asked to support a pupil with microcephaly it is important to collate a 'Pupil Profile' annotating under each key area (motor, communication, learning, strength/weaknesses etc) if the pupil has any needs that require supporting.
    • Once the pupil profile has been established – SENCO / Class teacher / Parents / Outreach Service / Health Professionals can work together to identify specific strategies that will support these needs.

Family Resources

Whizz Kids

Website: 
http://www.whizz-kidz.org.uk/
Description

Whizz-Kidz is a charity aiming to provide disabled children and young customised mobility equipment, training, advice and life skills.

This Charity provides equipment to children that is not available on the NHS. They also run Wheelchair training courses/ Mobility centres in Dagenham and Havering.

Contact a family

Website: 
http://www.cafamily.org.uk/
Description

A UK wide charity providing advice, information and support to parents of all disabled children.