Rett Syndrome

What it is:
Rett Syndrome is a rare genetic neurological disorder almost exclusively affecting girls, caused by mutations in the MECP2 gene. It leads to severe cognitive, motor, and communication difficulties, often after a period of seemingly normal development.

What to look out for:
Students may show loss of purposeful hand skills (e.g., repetitive hand-wringing), delayed speech, difficulty walking, and problems with coordination. Seizures and breathing irregularities may also occur.

Real-life example:
A student who once could speak simple words stops using them and begins to communicate mainly through gestures. During a math lesson, they struggle to manipulate objects or write numbers due to fine motor challenges.

How it affects learning:
Cognitive delays and motor impairments make reading, writing, and participation in most classroom activities challenging. Communication difficulties can lead to frustration or withdrawal. Seizures or fatigue can disrupt consistent learning.

Best learning strategies:

• Use augmentative and alternative communication devices (AAC).

• Incorporate hands-on, tactile, and visual learning tools.

• Break tasks into very small, manageable steps.

• Schedule frequent rest breaks and accommodate medical needs.

• Collaborate closely with therapists, including occupational and speech therapy, to support learning.