The aim of this research project is to: to prepare a summary of existing research on best practice in effective fundamental movement skill development in the work place (within and beyond education) (b) to analyse different models of fundamental movement skill training in physical education teacher education in two research sites, and to compare them …
Read More Addressing fundamental movement skill training: Learning to move, moving to learn

Children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus have co-ordination and perception problems because they are not as active as other children and their balance is not good.  They may need help to learn how to use different eye movements such as skimming and scanning. They may need practise in learning to direct their eyes left, right, …
Read More Teaching pupils with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus

Children who find it difficult to communicate may express their frustration in bad temper or aggressive behaviour.  This may mean keeping a note of what leads up to the bad behaviour; in other words, trying to establish the triggers. Try to keep the classrooms structured and keep the child aware of the pattern of the …
Read More Teaching pupils with Cerebral Palsy

Encourage the child to take part in exercise wherever possible, especially swimming. Consider using lighter equipment for games etc. Let the child choose whether or not to have adult help to perform a task. Encourage him/her to make his/her own decisions, e.g. “Let me know if you need your coat and if you want help …
Read More Teaching pupils with Muscular Dystrophy

Present from birth Often accompanied by hydrocephalus (water on the brain) Spina Bifida This condition is caused by a defect in the neural tube which forms the spine, spinal cord and brain.  A gap is left in the vertebrae.  It can present in variations in severity from mild, where only a hair or dimple is …
Read More Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus

Genetic Ranges from mild to life-limiting Progressive condition More common in boys A disorder of the nerves connecting the brain and spinal cord to the muscles.   The disease leads to a breakdown of muscle fibres causing weak and wasted muscles.  The disease usually begins to show itself in childhood.  The disease can range in severity …
Read More Muscular Dystrophy

Basic Facts Cerebral palsy is a condition affecting muscle control and movement.  It affects around 1 in 400 children in the UK, and is caused by an injury to the brain before, during or after birth, such as a lack of oxygen to the brain or an infection during pregnancy.  It is not progressive, and …
Read More Cerebral Palsy – an introduction