Spina Bifida. Fact Sheet = Espina Bifida. Hojas Informativas Sobre Discapacidades.

This fact sheet offers definitions of the three types of spina bifida (spina bifida occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele), outlines their incidence, describes characteristics of individuals with spina bifida, and reviews educational implications. The fact sheet discusses the need for many children with myelomeningocele to learn to manage their bowel and bladder functions. It emphasizes that the courts have held that clean, intermittent catheterization is necessary to help the child benefit from and have access to special educational and related services and that a successful bladder management program can be incorporated into the regular school day. The fact sheet then describes the difficulties students with spina bifida who also have a history of hydrocephalus may have with learning, paying attention, and grasping reading and math. It discusses the possible need to adapt the curriculum and the school setting for the successful integration of a child with spin bifida and highlights the need for all members of the school team and the parents to understand the childs physical capabilities and limitations. A list of five print resources and four organizations is provided. (CR)