Puberty, as a young adult
When children with Williams syndrome reach puberty, many changes take place. Academically, as students finish primary school and move on to secondary school, transition programmes need to be put in place. It is important to look at what lies ahead for children after secondary school and make sure the curriculum supports those goals. Socially, children often begin to struggle, as their peers take big leaps into adulthood compared to their much smaller steps. This can lead to confusion, especially as they begin to wonder, ‘Why am I different?’
Children begin to take their first steps towards independence. Mood swings and anxiety are common. Sexually, young teenagers have to adjust to their changing bodies and emotions. There are also medical issues that need attention, such as changes in the musculoskeletal system (e.g. curvature of the spine and joints). In addition, one should check (elevated) blood pressure regularly and take gastrointestinal problems into account.
Het Williams-Beuren syndroom informatiebrochure, published on 1 sty 2004
