Intended for parents as well as professionals, the text provides information and practical suggestions on dealing with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Part I (chapters 1 and 2) concentrates on the medical and physical aspects of the condition with discussions covering such areas as spina bifida's development, locomotor problems, and the role of genetic counseling. Part II (two chapters) is concerned with an account of and services for family problems which include the crisis precipitated by the birth of a handicapped child, the question of the support and information given to parents during the early months, and the effects of the handicapped child's presence on marital relationships and siblings. Part III focuses on the child's intellectual development with four chapters on research findings, suggestions for fostering both intellectual and social development during preschool years, the question of choosing a school, and what can be done to help the child in school. Part IV (two chapters) examines problems of pre-adolescent and teenage spina bifida children and considers prospects for further education, training, and employment. The text ends with a summary of conclusions and recommendations. Appendixes include a glossary of technical terms. (SBH)