Neural Tube Defects - FAQ

Why isn't my child doing better in school? He has spina bifida at a low level and I've been told his IQ is normal.

This is a complicated question. Children with spina bifida have been noted to perform less well in school and achieve less than other individuals of the same intelligence (as measured by IQ). There are many reasons to think that the brains of children with spina bifida, even those with low lesions, may also be affected by the same early developmental process that caused the spina bifida. Children with spina bifida, even those with few complicating problems, like hydrocephalus and seizures, are noted to have higher verbal IQs than performance IQs, giving them a different learning and achievement profile than individuals without spina bifida. See Learning problems in children with NTD for more details. Although not specifically proven for the population of children with spina bifida, we believe that early intervention and school intervention is helpful for children for special needs. Continue to be an advocate for your child at school to help him achieve the best possible outcome in his life. See Children's Education Services, (801-662-4914); See also Services below.