Fragile X Syndrome Martin-Bell Syndrome Dustin James II

Fragile What?  Fragile X is a genetic disorder that affects a child or adult that causes learning disabilities and cognitive impairment  It is caused by an impairment in the X chromosome, notably in the FRM1 gene. This gene makes a protein that a protein that helps with normal brain development. Those with FXS do not make this protein, and others with FXS related syndromes make some of this protein.

Fragile What? (Cont.)  Although both males and females, it is more common in males than females. It can cause mild to severe intellectual disabilities. - Males have the more severe impairments and disabilities than females  Approximately 1 in 4000 males and 1 in 8000 female have FXS  It is not easily detected at birth if a child has FXS, but a specific genetic test called the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be performed on the child to diagnose FXS. - The test looks to for an expanded mutation in the FMR1 gene.  It is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disabilities

Physical Characteristics

Behavior Characteristics  Developmental Delays - Sitting, walking, speaking at a later time than typical children  Learning Disabilities - Trouble learning new skills or information  Social Difficulty - Do not make much eye contact, anxiety, difficulty paying attention, hand flapping, acting/speaking without thinking, dislike of being touched, social anxiety  Very active  Stuttering  Impulsiveness  Difficulty sleeping  1 In 3 children with FXS have features/similar symptoms of autism

Faces of Fragile X Syndrome Fragile X Documentary Trailer (2008)

Fragile X in the Classroom  As it is with every child with or without disabilities, each child learns differently and in their own speeds.  Those with FXS are very not social  The challenge of being not being understood often frustrates the child - Clearly stated rules and procedures should be established and reviewed regularly  ADD and ADHD  Some autistic behaviors may appear

Fragile X in the Classroom (Cont.)  Hands-on Activities  Alternate ways to complete assignments  Loud noises in the class may disrupt the child - Can cause discomfort in child when exposed to the new, loud sound  Familiar music and movement - Have some flexibility when wanting to have the students sit down and work and when to let them have some freedom in movement  Always build on the strengths and interest of the students  Allow them a personal workspace and a “regrouping area” for when he/she gets frustrated

Inclusion in Your Classroom  Social Anxiety - Limit social interaction to the amount that is comfortable with the student  Short, hands on activities - Keep their attention for the time needed to work on the assignment, while over time, extending the time for the activity to be worked on - Keep assignment short and sweet to ensure as much focus as possible is devoted to the assignment  Pictures and Graphics in the Classroom

What Would You Do?  John has Fragile X Syndrome. He participates in the class for the most part, sometimes losing his focus and finds something that interests him. When asked to return to his seat, John covers his hears with his hands and screams until he is able to do what he wants to do. As his teacher, how would you allow John to do what interests him while also ensuring that he participates in the classroom activities?

Resources  The National Fragile X Foundation  Genetics Home Reference  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  Healthline  teAchnology /