Supporting Children with Chronic Illness in Schools

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Did you know 27% of our youth live with chronic health conditions? (Focus for Health, 2018). Not only is this a large percent but the number is growing. Between cancer, asthma, diabetes, allergies, epilepsy/seizures; these health disabilities affect children's daily life including schooling.

I am currently a masters student in the Special Education licensure program at Boston University's School of Education. I previously received a dual bachelor of science from Syracuse University where I studied education, sociology, and disability studies. I have a passion to advocate and ensure that all students with disabilities receive inclusive, quality education.

In recent years, I have had students in my classroom who miss two to three weeks at a time due to severe asthma symptoms. Students with similar health disabilities often miss school due to their illness which results in academic and socio-emotional disparities. Statistics show as many as 45% of children with health disabilities report falling behind in their school work which leads to them disliking school (Lynch et. al, 1992). The challenges these students have to face to be re-included into the school, socially and academically, is not an obstacle students, parents, or care-providers should take individually.

It is evident that these students and families are at an intersection between health and education systems. Finding ways to collaborate with these various systems to provide them with effective schooling is key for their success. Research shows that these children need school personnel that are willing to think creatively and integrate their educational and health needs by collaborating with families and health care professionals (Thies, 1999). The personal and professional relationships made between educators, healthcare providers and students with health disabilities is pivotal for educational success among this growing population of students.

References:

Focus for Health: Chronic Illness and the State of Our Children's Health. (2018). Retrieved from:

https://www.focusforhealth.org/chronic-illnesses-and-the-state-of-our-childrens-health/

Lynch, E.W., Lewis R.B., & Murphy D.S. (1992). Educational services for children with chronic

illnesses: perspectives of educators and families. Excep Child (59)210-220.

Thies, K. M. (1999). Identifying the Educational Implications of Chronic Illness in School Children.

Journal of School Health, 69(10), 392. Retrieved from http://link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A59543897/AONE?u=mlin_b_bumml&sid=AONE&xid=95f401e7

*Research Partner: Emily Doyle