How do you describe Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) to students?

If you are going to talk to young children about Fragile X, keep it short and simple. If you’re not sure at what level to talk, ask one of your friends or neighbors who have a child in the same class. If you know a “typical” child your child’s age, ask them what they would like to know about Fragile X syndrome. If this is the first introduction for your child to new classmates, bring a favorite toy of your child’s so the other children see that your child is interested in the same things as they are.

Here are a few examples of how to describe Fragile X syndrome:

  • Fragile X syndrome is a condition that some kids are born with. And sometimes, more than one person in a family can have it. You cannot catch it from another person or develop it if you never had it before. It is more common in some families than in others. Just like the color of a person’s eyes, FXS is beyond anyone’s control. It is one of the ways people are unique.
  • Fragile X syndrome is a genetic condition that is on the X chromosome. The Fragile X gene does not produce a protein that is needed for brain development, so their bodies work differently than yours. While they may be hard to understand when they talk, they like to do the same things you do. 
  • Fragile X syndrome is an inherited disorder affecting intellectual, behavioral, and social development. It occurs in both males and females who have a full mutation of the FMR1 gene.

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