Exceptionality: Turner Syndrome Lucas pettenuzzo Special education: part 2

What is Turner Syndrome? What causes it? Turner Syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an abnormality in the X-Chromosome. One of the X-Chromosomes is fully or partially missing. This means that Turner Syndrome (TS) ONLY AFFECTS GIRLS. If physical symptoms are noted at birth, the condition can be diagnosed through an analysis of a baby’s DNA. If physical signs are not present, the condition is usually diagnosed in the early teen years when a girl fails to experience puberty.

What are the signs of Turner Syndrome? DNA Karyotype – Missing X-Chromosome Physical Signs: Short Stature Lack of sexual development “Webbed” neck Low hairline on back of neck Drooping eyelids Differently shaped ears, set lower on the side of the head than usual. Some girls have NO physical signs.

Living with Turner Syndrome Since Turner Syndrome is a genetic condition, there is no “cure” available. With early diagnosis, there are several treatments available. Growth Hormone (HGH) can allow girls with TS to reach average height. Estrogen Therapy to promote sexual development of breasts and hips. In-vitro therapy can allow a woman with TS to be pregnant and give birth to children.

Some Learning Implications of TS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Occupational Therapy to develop fine motor skills such as handwriting, tying shoes and cutting paper. Speech therapy to work on speech sounds. Modified physical education classes which account for physical disabilities/limitations. SECONDARY SCHOOL Use of technology for writing assignments, including word processors and speech-to-text programs. Time management training. Extra time for assignments and tests. http://www.turnersyndromefoundation.org/learning.html#Cognitive Issues

What girls with Turner Syndrome do well Memorize instructions well Write well and develop good language skills Learn well by hearing Typically neat (though slow) handwriting. Follow verbal instructions as well as other students. Depending on the challenges faced by each individual student.

Therapies to assist learning in school Cognitive Behavior Therapy Auditory Integration Therapy Social Skills Groups This is therapy guided by a trained professional which enables girls with TS to perform better with typical, everyday abilities such as concentration, focus and making appropriate choices. Auditory integration therapy may improve reading, writing, speech, and language development. Also greater ability in handling noisy environments. Increased development of neural pathways that could improve handwriting and other fine and gross motor skills Helps girls with TS have social success by giving tips and strategies for confronting the challenges of peer interaction. Helps girls make friends, avoid bullying and navigating the changes in social interactions through life stages. http://www.turnersyndromefoundation.org/learning.html#Treatment

Suggestions to help girls with TS cope Encourage a student to stay active in sports or hobbies that they enjoy. Being involved with school sports and clubs can promote positive peer interactions and build social skills. If a student cannot play sports, try to find alternate roles where a student with TS can participate. Refer a student to the school counselor if you suspect that she is having problems at school. A qualified counselor or other mental health professional can help build self-esteem and address concerns about living with Turner syndrome.

Most importantly… Everyone with Turner Syndrome is different. If you have a student who has Turner syndrome, remember to respect her individuality. She may not feel comfortable talking about her condition, so let her share only what she feels comfortable with. You also can support your student by being a good listener.

Suggested questions which will help us teach students with Turner Syndrome (and allow Lucas to appear knowledgeable): I have a student with Turner Syndrome, what is the best source of information to help me modify/accommodate? What are the physical limitations that are typically associated with Turner Syndrome? Have you ever taught a student with Turner Syndrome? What were your experiences working with this/these students? What are the educational implications for teaching students with TS in elementary school….and teaching students with TS in secondary school?

References & Further Reading Teens Health http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/turner.html# The Mayo Clinic http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/turner-syndrome/basics/coping- support/con-20032572 Turner Syndrome Foundation http://www.turnersyndromefoundation.org/ Turner Syndrome Society of Canada http://www.turnersyndrome.ca/