Back-to-school prep for children with chronic conditions

For most parents, preparing to send children back to school means supply shopping and adjustments to routines, among other changes. But for parents of children with chronic medical conditions, back-to-school preparations can look different.

“Parents of children who have asthma, diabetes, allergies or other medical conditions need to take additional steps to prepare for the start of school,” says Dr. Maria Fe Visaya, a pediatrician with Aurora Health Care. “These children have individualized needs that school staff must be aware of and prepared for to help keep them safe and healthy.”

Dr. Visaya offers the following tips to start the school year off strong:

Meet with experts

If you haven’t already, bring your child to their pediatrician and/or specialist who manages their condition. This is a great opportunity to talk through ways to best prepare your child’s school for their arrival. There may also be important documents that need to be signed. Work with your child’s health care provider to ensure you have the necessary medical supplies, such as medications, glucometer, EpiPen and inhaler.

Get in contact with school staff in advance

Teachers, administrators and school nurses are all critical team members to know, and they can also direct you to other important individuals. Explain your child’s condition, signs and symptoms to look out for, and coordinate a plan of action for emergency situations. It can be helpful to provide written information for them to reference as needed. Give the staff your contact information and save all relevant phone numbers in your phone so you don’t miss a call.

Routinely check in with them. If your child’s condition causes them to miss school, communicate that and talk through a plan.

Talk with your child to make sure they are prepared for school

Encourage them to always advocate for themselves while at school and anywhere else. Make sure they understand the school staff is equipped to help them. Discuss with them the adults who are aware of their condition and needs.

“Heading back to school is an exciting time for children. These preparations will help ensure things go as smoothly as possible for everyone,” Dr. Visaya says.

Are you trying to find a pediatrician? Find one in Illinois or Wisconsin.