manual for School psychologists

The manual for school psychologists in kindergartens and primary schools is part of a set of training materials developed within the Multi-IN project to support the provision of multidisciplinary care and inclusion for pupils with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Its aim is to assist school psychologists in educational institutions in their efforts to provide quality professional care and create a supportive inclusive environment. School psychologists are most often present in schools, but this document is useful for all other professional staff who work in nursery and primary schools (for example, therapeutic and social pedagogues).

This manual discusses the role of the school psychologist in the multidisciplinary support team – given the unique position that the school psychologist has, primarily by creating a supportive and safe relationship with the child directly in the school environment. At the same time, he or she has the opportunity to monitor the development of children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, the process of their integration into the school environment and the ability to influence these processes competently in favour of the best interests of the children. It could be said that alongside the parents, he has the opportunity to become an advocate for the child, his rights and the fulfilment of his developmental needs in one of the most important periods of development. He works in an environment that is, after the family, the second most important environment that shapes children.  For many vulnerable groups of children, the active presence of a supportive professional in the school environment is essential and has the potential to influence the whole of a child’s future personal development.