[Curative-pedagogic aspects of mental deficiency].

Curative pedagogy is nothing else but a theory on education and teaching of the mentally handicapped. The author presents the following seven thesis: 1. Mental deficiency is not a definite state. It should be considered as a "relative" state, bound to its origins but with possibilities of change. It is thus to be considered as a state that can be influenced, modified and within the reach of education. 2. The notion that every child can be educated is inherent to pedagogic theory. The mentally deficient child forces us to examine, more often, our teaching methods. 3. It is only when the doctor and the pedagogue seriously collaborate that it becomes possible to elaborate early developmental programmes. 4. The pedagogue does not remain centered on diagnosis, but allows himself to be directed by the developmental possibilities of the child. 5. Pedagogy is not only concerned with the impairment of intelligence, but seeks a global approach in which the affective relationship is taken into account. This global approach is possible only with a multidisciplinary team. 6. Pedagogy takes into account the parents as well as the child in order to assist them and help them accept the situation. 7. Pedagogic help should not terminate with the end of official schooling, but should remain a permanent support which should be continuously improved.