Williams Syndrome Explained A Guide for High School Students

What Is Williams Syndrome? Williams syndrome is a genetic disorder that someone is born with. You cannot “catch” Williams syndrome. You might not even know someone has it. They are good at some things and not so good at others. One thing they have trouble with is thinking fast. They are very good at remembering people’s faces along with their names, even after meeting just one time. People with Williams syndrome generally love music, and some are excellent musicians. They will be the first to offer a hug or a high five when they are excited or happy.

Medical & Developmental Issues Many individuals with Williams syndrome have a variety of medical problems, including heart problems, high blood pressure, eating issues, and a variety of other medical concerns. Due to all of their medical problems, they tend to miss more days of school than the average person does. Most individuals with Williams syndrome have poor fine and gross motor skills, making some everyday tasks difficult such as manipulating a zipper or tying shoes. Physical activities such as jumping, climbing, and running are also often compromised in individuals with Williams syndrome.

Social Issues People with Williams syndrome typically have a high level of anxiety, especially in unfamiliar surroundings. This anxiety may stem from having very sensitive hearing. Loud noises and certain tones and frequencies of noises may scare them greatly. Some things that may cause fear are thunder, fire alarms, fireworks, and various other loud noises. They are very concrete, literal thinkers, and idioms are lost on them. If you use the phrase, “It’s raining cats and dogs,” they will expect to see cats and dogs falling from the sky. Keep this in mind when communicating with a person with Williams syndrome. People with Williams syndrome also have anticipatory anxiety. Whether they are excited or fearful of an upcoming event, they will likely talk about it frequently until the event occurs. One of the things individuals with Williams syndrome have difficulty with is reading social cues. For example, if they are talking with you and you are not making eye contact and yawning, they probably will not perceive this as your lack of interest.

School and Williams Syndrome In a school setting, kids with Williams syndrome may have a hard time finding their place. They may think they fit in perfectly with one group, but the group may not feel the same. They cannot help but be friendly; it’s in their GENES. Someone with Williams syndrome may not be able to play on the football team due to medical issues or issues with motor skills, but they can be part of the team. It is more important to them to be a part of something or a social group. Asking them to be an honorary member or play another role on the team is a great way to include them in a social or team event. Academic-performance levels are different for all individuals with Williams syndrome.

Appreciating Williams We can look at those who have Williams syndrome and strive to be more like them. If some of us had half the hearts that they do, this world would be a much greater place to live in. To love unconditionally, without any trust issues, and to always see the good in people rather than focusing on the bad would be such a blessing to us all.

Questions? Remember that it is okay and welcomed if you have questions about Williams syndrome. We prefer that you ask questions so we may answer them correctly. Questions do not offend but rather show us that you have an interest in Williams syndrome and your fellow student.

More Information Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation PO Box 76021 Saint Petersburg, FL 33734 Telephone: 727-557-7177 Website: www.wschanginglives.org Email: info@wschanginglives.org /WilliamsSyndromeChangingLivesFoundation

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