Starting school can be a daunting experience for any child, and is particularly challenging for a child with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. The children are very vulnerable and it is also hard for their parents to let go, as this will be one of the first times that they are leaving their child to be cared for by others over a long period of time.

The needs of the child are often complex. For example, a child with hydrocephalus could suffer a potentially life-threatening shunt malfunction, so it is vital that their teachers have the knowledge necessary to know when this might be occurring and how to address the issue.

Many of our children are also wheelchair-bound and we find that they are often left out of activities unless their teachers and fellow pupils are aware of ways to adapt in order for them to play an active part.  

Shine’s Education Advisers and regional workers play a vital part in ensuring that the transition into school life is a smooth process, assisting both children and parents in adapting to a new way of life. They go into the classroom, often accompanied by Benny Bear, Shine’s mascot and a bear who himself has hydrocephalus.

Benny has a shunt fitted and can prove to be a very valuable educational and learning tool when explaining to teachers and pupils the challenges that their fellow students might face. This practice often ensures that a child with spina bifida and hydrocephalus has a productive and happy school life.

The support given by our education advisers also helps teachers when dealing with issues of bullying, which can occur because you are deemed to be ‘different’ from the rest. They help the school tackle the issue sensitively and guide them to a successful outcome.

This year the balloons will be launched from Edinburgh on the 2nd August to coincide with the start of The Fringe Festival.