The role of the transition liaison professional, who is knowledgeable in medical terminology, hospital procedures, and educational/community services for helping children with chronic illnesses, is explained. Discussion covers effects of recent laws, the need for a formal discharge program and planning model, and the many functions of the…

Early communication was examined for 3 children (ages 20 to 27 months) who had been tracheostomized during their first year and were still cannulated. Communication means and intentions and rate of communication were examined. Potential contributions of social, cognitive, and language skills to the onset of early words were assessed. (Author/SW)

Provides evidence of detrimental effects of lead exposure on child behavior at levels typical of present-day exposure. Behavior and lead-blood level were examined for 201 African-American children aged 2 through 5 years. A standardized parent report measure and consideration of maternal morale are features of study methodology. (SLD)

Reviews the important relationship between end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and hypertension for African Americans; and considers issues associated with ESRD and the subsequent need for kidney transplants, including organ availability. Individual and societal implications of these diseases are discussed. (SLD)

Notes performance injuries are a concern among musicians. Gives an overview of performing arts medicine, a new field offering benefits to music students and professionals. Comments on the educators' role in preventive strategies. States music educators can make a useful contribution to research by sharing their knowledge. (NL)

This study found chronic regurgitation in 23 of 220 institutionalized adults with severe mental retardation. A high prevalence of dysphagia and gastroesophageal abnormalities was found, suggesting the importance of full evaluation and treatment prior to a diagnosis of rumination in this population. (Author/DB)

This paper discusses issues related to educating children dependent on medical technology. It examines the movement toward greater normalization for these children, the use of transdisciplinary teams to develop specific plans addressing the students' unique health care and educational needs, and possible curricular and classroom accommodations.…

Athletes with heart symptoms require, in addition to the regular evaluations everyone receives, testing during exercise. History taking should be carefully conducted to properly determine adverse heart conditions. Recommendations are provided for proper diagnosis and handling of athletes with heart symptoms. (GLR)

This article reviews the effects of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) on the central nervous system and the educational implications of increasing numbers of students with perinatal HIV infection and pediatric acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Studies on the relationship between HIV and child development are urged. (Author/DB)

Issues and concerns in considering school programing needs of children with special health conditions include definition of the population, educational program philosophy, and communication and collaboration. Factors affecting programing for these students include policies for delivery of health care services, personnel training, orientation of…

The article examines the transition to parenthood that occurs for parents of full-term healthy infants and the similarities and differences in the experiences of parents of technology-assisted infants. Implications for early intervention practice for technology-assisted infants and their families are then discussed. (Author/JDD)

This research project examined the interpersonal relationships between 18 children with chronic and/or deteriorating conditions and their parents and teachers in Scotland. Results support the urgent need for more initial and inservice staff development to enable the inclusive education of children with serious medical conditions. Also stressed is…

This study examined the quality of caregiver-child interaction using the Parent/Caregiver Involvement Scale with 41 preschoolers (who were prenatally exposed to cocaine) and 39 nonexposed preschoolers. Both biological mothers and foster caregivers of exposed children were significantly less emotionally and developmentally appropriate in…

Interviewed eight Norwegian school children whose treatment for cancer had been completed, their parents, their teachers, and health personnel. Findings show that students with cancer have a clear desire to value their own academic ability, and that they strive to master academic requirements in spite of illness. (SLD)

The family-based practicum experience of the University Affiliated Program of Vermont provides early intervention interns with an in-depth experience with the family of a child with special health care and/or education needs. Through this experience, interns acquire an understanding of the elements of a family-centered approach, incorporate the…