The conductive environment enhances gross motor function of girls with Rett syndrome. A pilot study

Abstract

Introduction: Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurological disorder usually associated with a mutation in the MECP2 gene. Conductive Education (CE) is an educational approach that has not yet been explored with regard to children with RTT.Objective: Assessing functional abilities of individuals with RTT due to CE intervention.Design: A single subject, AB design.Method: This study assessed the functional skills of three girls with RTT aged 3–5 years before and during participation in a CE programme.Results: Gross motor function improvements were observed at the end of the intervention period. Gross motor skills declined slightly in all participants over the summer holidays but improved again a few months after recommencement of the educational year.Conclusion: Replication of this study with more subjects is justified as is comparison with other educational methods. A home intervention programme should be constructed to prevent decline of skills over the summer vacation.