Page 62 - SEN114 September/October 2021

Schools and colleges
Cerebral Palsy, school & me
Francesca Dean shares her perspective for parents on choosing the right school for their children.
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Francesca Dean made her entrance into the world on September 28th 1994, weighing a tiny 2lbs 8oz not knowing yet what this crazy but spectacular world had planned for her, She didn’t know it yet, but she was
brought into the world to be an advocate for children and so many other families who live with Cerebral Palsy.
What Is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral Palsy is a neurological condition which occurs in the womb. As the placenta starts to deteriorate, consequently the baby doesn’t get the vital oxygen and nutrients that a baby needs to be able to survive. Therefore, after birth, this can affect core child development such as speech, language, motor skills, dexterity, and the ability to communicate.
Francesca’s story with Cerebral Palsy began 26 years ago, way before Google or social media exploded onto our mobiles and screens.
“I can’t even begin to imagine what it must’ve been like for so many families in the same predicament as mine. Waiting for weeks on end just to find out what was happening and the decisions surrounding whatever outcome awaited - without the quick fix and efficacy of computers, search engines and the rollercoaster of emotions that would follow suit - as well as this, how the decisions might impact on such an innocent but vulnerable child with tough mountains to climb later in life. Small things we all take for granted.”
“Gain insight from those who work with your child closely”
“On the other hand, I was put on this earth to live my life to the absolute fullest not only just to educate others and their families, but also to demonstrate just how beautiful Cerebral Palsy can be, when you have an incredible support network around you with a plethora of tools and know-how to guide and anchor you along the way.”
“This, I believe, has helped me blossom into the fierce, passionate and determined young woman I am today - without a single sympathy vote in sight – and it’s this mantra I’m so proud to live by.”
Why choosing the right school
for your child is key
Choosing an appropriate school for your child plays a key role in their overall development especially if your child has Cerebral Palsy or any other additional disabilities.
However, this all depends on condition severity and overall progress made from nursery but the best way to establish this is to gain insight from those who work with your child closely such as a social worker, teacher, teaching assistants, nursery nurse, physiotherapists or occupational therapists.
The best advice I can give to you is to always follow gut instinct and regardless of the outcome you’re giving your child the best possible start as they begin the next most important chapter in their educational journey.
Every child deserves to grow up in a world full of inclusivity, diversity and cohesion regardless of disability and to follow their dreams but this process can only start when the right choice of school has been finalised.
Whatever choice of school you make, please don’t put yourselves down. You know your own children best.
I must stress that choosing an appropriate school for children with additional needs is not easy in any way, shape or form.
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■ Me - Francesca. SEN114