There was a high prevalence of parenting stress in caregivers of children with a brain tumour. An external locus of control and coping by accepting responsibility increased the likelihood of elevated levels of stress. Results emphasised the importance of ongoing support for parents of children with brain tumours. Intervention might helpfully be centred on strategies to increase parents' internal locus of control.

Cerebellar Mutism Syndrome (CMS), also known as posterior fossa syndrome (CMS/PFS), refers to a transient loss of speech followed by dysarthria and is a common complication in the pediatric population following resection of a cerebellar tumor. Recognition and rehabilitation of CMS is critical in the post-operative phases of recovery. Two case studies, including neuropsychological assessments, along with the family and patient's perspectives are reviewed.

Purpose -Modern healthcare services are commonly based on shared models of care, in which a strong emphasis is placed upon the views of those in receipt of services. The purpose of this paper is to examine the parents' experiences of their child's neuropsychological assessment. Design/methodology/approach -This was a mixed-methodology study employing both quantitative and qualitative measures. Findings -The questionnaire measure indicated a high overall level of satisfaction. Qualitative analysis of parental interviews provided a richer insight into the parental experience and indicated four major themes. Practical implications -Implications covered three major areas. Firstly, whilst a high value was placed upon the assessment, the need for further comprehensive neurorehabilitation and intervention was highlighted. Secondly, this study highlights the significant adversity experienced by such families and subsequent unmet psychological needs which also require consideration. Finally, findings from the current study could assist in improving future measures of satisfaction in similar services. Originality/value -This is the first published study of parental experiences of and satisfaction with paediatric neuropsychological assessment in the UK.

Encephalitis is an inflammation of brain tissue that can result from a number of viruses and can be contracted at any age, with prevalence in children exceeding adult incidence. In order to illustrate specific cognitive, behavioural and service provision issues related to post-encephalitis rehabilitation of children, this paper examines the pattern of referrals to a specialist regional paediatric neuropsychology service in the United Kingdom. Three case vignettes are presented to demonstrate the wide range of presentations encountered in our service ranging from mild (10%) to moderate (65%) and severe (25%) impairment with 80% of referrals relating to behaviour and educational concerns. On average 13 new referrals are received annually resulting in a cumulative case-load due to the need for serial assessment. The implications for patient care are discussed.

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