Sending kids back to school with a medical condition adds a new layer of back-to-school to-dos. Children need to be equipped to go to school with an understanding of their condition as well as how to advocate for themselves. Dr. Rhonda Patt from Atrium Health Levine Children’s Charlotte Pediatrics in SouthPark has some great ideas to help you prepare your children in an age-appropriate way.
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How to Prepare a Child with a Medical Condition for School
“If your child has a medical condition, it’s important to think about how this may impact your child’s school day or the possible risks for your child in the school environment,” says Patt.
Educate your child.
Most importantly, your child needs to have a good understanding of his or her health conditions: signs and symptoms of worsening and reasons to go to the teacher or a nurse. With each year of maturity, this part becomes more relevant as the child becomes his or her own health advocate.
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Touch base with the school nurse.
Your school nurse can talk to you about what resources and procedures are already in place at the school for children with similar conditions. If your child has a rare condition, the nurse may request educational materials or a more detailed action plan from your child’s doctor.
Refill medications.
If your child requires medicine during school hours – either on a routine basis or only in case of an emergency – make sure to refill the medication left at school. Note: schools will not administer medications that are past their expiration date.
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Complete necessary forms.
Schools will not administer medications – even over-the-counter medications – without instructions from the child’s doctor. Many schools have specific forms that are required for certain conditions or medications.
Schedule your child an annual checkup.
“Annual wellness visits are important for all children, but they are particularly vital for children with chronic conditions. These visits provide an opportunity for the child, parents and the healthcare team to make a plan for the following year,” says Patt.
For more information read the full Daily Dose article at this link.
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