The brand new edition of this unique book describes the difficulties and challenges of girls and women with Rett Syndrome, and proposes solutions that can help them in everyday life. Written from an educational perspective, and based on extensive practical, real-life experience, it also takes into consideration living conditions as a whole to provide practical and effective help for all those involved in the care of those with Rett Syndrome. Rett Syndrome is a severe neurological disorder with no cure affecting 1 out of every 10,000-15,000 female births worldwide. It is now known to result from a chromosomal defect that leads to problems such as mental retardation, serious motor handicaps, epileptic seizures, and difficulties with communication. This syndrome is found only in girls, and usually becomes noticeable during their second year of life. In this new edition, the chapters on intelligence and understanding, learning and communication have been elucidated and deepened. There are also some new sections on digital pictures, computers, and sensory environments. "Understanding Rett Syndrome" is primarily intended for people close to those with Rett syndrome, including teachers, therapists and parents, but should be valuable to anyone involved with children with mental and functional disorders.