How to Ensure Your Chronically Sick Child Needs Are Met at School

School is a huge part of any child’s world. It’s where they meet and make lifelong friends. It’s were they learn valuable lessons both inside the classroom and out, but for a child suffering from chronic illness like cancer or inflammatory bowel disease, it can be an added burden. There are the issues of hair loss, going to school looking different, missing school so much that the child falls behind. It’s definitely challenging but not impossible. The circumstances will vary with each child and each school systems policies and procedures; but there are several ways in which you can advocate for your child at school. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Before starting school or as soon as possible ask for a meeting with the school principal, school nurse and school counselor to explain your child’s situation. They can play a significant role in coordinating information so that your child’s teacher and all the staff who has contact with your child are aware of critical information
2. Call for a team meeting whenever you feel it’s necessary. Don’t be afraid. In fact some schools will do this once a month. It’s a great way for you, your child’s teacher and support staff to talk to each other directly and exchange idea about making your child’s school experience better.
3. Identify someone as the main contact person at the school. It would make ongoing communication easier.
4. Know your laws. Federal law requires public schools to provide chronically ill students with a “free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment.” Based on the type of illness and its effects, the school to a certain extent must provide the educational support your child needs. Some school systems offer virtual school for kids hospitalized and others have a teacher visit the home.
5. Develop and get to know your child’s individualized educational plan (IEP). Basically it’s a written document that describes your child's educational program and medical requirements. Parents of chronically ill students may rightfully expect these plans to be developed and enacted. If they believe that their child’s rights are not being protected or their child’s needs are not being met, they may appeal to the courts.