Modesto child's rare syndrome teaches parents to take it step by step

Modesto child's rare syndrome teaches parents to take it step by step - Education - Modbee.com

It's a high point in the school day for the 11-year-old fourth grader, who is put in mainstream courses when possible and in a class for developmentally delayed students the rest of the time. And it brings a smile to the face of Julie Oliveira, Audrey's special day class teacher of two years.

"She's come a long way," Oliveira said. "Before, she wasn't able to work in groups or stay on task. Now she can. And she's a hoot. She's definitely fun to have in class."

That delightful personality and expressive speech defines Audrey, the oldest child of Dean and Sabrina Hull of Modesto. She has Williams syndrome, a rare genetic condition characterized by medical problems, developmental delays and learning disabilities. But such children also have striking verbal abilities, highly social personalities and an affinity for music.

"There are a lot of silver linings," said Sabrina.

Because the condition is so rare — about one in 10,000 births — not many people know about it. So today begins the first national Williams syndrome awareness week. The Hulls will hold a gathering Saturday for other families in Northern California affected by the syndrome.

Read more: http://www.modbee.com/2010/05/09/1159777/modesto-childs-rare-syndrom-teaches.html#ixzz0oF5QoteM