Neurological disorders

Children and adolescents with a neurological condition may face challenges related to learning and development. For example, they may have difficulty reading or experience problems with concentration and memory. The connection between a neurological disease or condition and learning performance and behavior is still relatively unknown. Not only parents and other family members are often unaware of this, but healthcare providers and educators also need information and guidance.

It is important to identify the strengths and weaknesses in the learning and behavior development of a child with a neurological condition early on. This allows for proactive measures to address future cognitive and/or behavioral problems, preventing learning performance or development from falling behind the child’s true potential.

If it is suspected that a child’s learning or developmental disorder is related to their neurological condition, or if this has already been established, the Center for Neurological Learning and Developmental Disorders at Kempenhaeghe provides deeper insight into these issues. The center is unique in its field.

The fields of pediatric neurology, clinical neuropsychology, and neurodidactics are integrated at the center. Additionally, there is the option to involve the De Berkenschutse educational expertise center, affiliated with Kempenhaeghe. This provides additional perspectives and facilitates coordination with the child’s school, whether it is a regular school or a special education institution.

At our center, we see children with a wide range of neurological conditions, including: abnormalities or infections of the nervous system, traumatic brain injury, neurological disorders resulting from birth complications or heredity, as well as muscular diseases and neurofibromatosis type 1. Specific care programs have been established for the latter group.

In a muscular disease such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Becker muscular dystrophy, and myotonic dystrophy, something goes wrong with the control of the muscles. Certain proteins play a role in this process. It has only recently been discovered that these proteins also serve a function in the brain, particularly in areas related to memory, the automation of learning skills (such as reading and arithmetic), and behavior.

Thanks to improved medical care and technology, the quality of life and life expectancy of children with muscular diseases have significantly improved. A future perspective that includes studying, working, and living independently is now a possibility. This makes it even more important to identify and investigate learning or behavioral problems early on. This way, optimal treatment or guidance can be provided to the child.