Executive functioning problems

In general, the average IQ score for people with spina bifida and hydrocephalus is about 10% lower than the general population average.

Some people with SBH have an intellectual disability while others succeed in tertiary education. The range of achievement of individuals is very diverse.

Most children with SBH today attend mainstream school, however, most will have some learning difficulties, caused by the two partners of spina bifida – hydrocephalus and the Chiari II malformation.

These difficulties can include one or more of the following areas:

• Language
• Memory and learning,
• Visuo-motor integration skills,
• Planning and
• Organisational skills.

It is vitally important that these ‘hidden disabilities’ are identified and evaluated in individuals, to allow effective intervention. Problems in these areas must be managed effectively to ensure learning does occur, and eventually employment success and independence are achieved.