ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book summarizes the research findings which are of particular relevance to all those working with spina bifida children and their families and to consider their implications for policy and individual practice. Regular support and advice is needed from hospital-based staff, health visitors and social workers, on how to minimize the problems and utilize those statutory resources. Behavioural problems, in particular distractability and passivity, may be additional problems. The ideal person to give such help is an occupational therapist or psychologist, although a health visitor with special training working with these professionals could be of great help. Spina bifida children appear to have fairly good verbal skills, particularly as regards the acquisition of vocabulary and the development of syntax. Research findings suggest that on the whole spina bifida children get on well with their peers both in special and in ordinary schools.
