Going to School

School is a major part of any child’s life. And while all children and adolescents experience physical, emotional, and social challenges, a child with pediatric Crohn’s disease may face even tougher challenges.  

For example, growth problems, symptoms, and a general depression about their condition can have an impact on how children interact with teachers and classmates. The delayed growth and puberty associated with Crohn’s disease can make a child look younger and smaller than their peers, which can cause them to withdraw or have low self-esteem.  

The physical symptoms of Crohn’s can be equally embarrassing and difficult to deal with in the school setting. Some symptoms, such as diarrhea and intense cramps, come on quick, and a child might have to leave the classroom quickly.   This can call attention to the child’s condition, causing further embarrassment and possibly prompting ridicule from classmates. Therefore, it is important for teachers to be sensitive to such circumstances and take care not to question the child in front of other students.  

Coping with Crohn’s at school

The following are issues that a child with Crohn’s may experience at school, as well as practical solutions for the child, parents, teachers, and classmates alike.

Taking medications during school 

Children with Crohn’s disease often require medications throughout the school day to help control symptoms such as diarrhea and pain. This is normally done by the school nurse. One way to prevent this from calling unwanted attention to the student may be to combine the visit to the nurse with a separate task, such as delivering a note to the administrative office or acting as a hall monitor.

Missing school 

Because of the nature of Crohn’s symptoms, children may often have to miss school. They may even have to spend time in a hospital, sometimes for several weeks. It is up to the teachers and parents to come up with a “make-up plan” in advance. The make-up plan should involve having assignments, class notes, and make-up exams in place in case the child should miss them. It may also help to have the child’s classmates write encouraging letters or stay in touch while he or she is out sick. This might help make the child feel better and less isolated from the rest of the class.

Participation in sports and other activities  

Children with Crohn’s disease are encouraged to stay active and participate in sports, as long as they feel fit enough to do so. Keep in mind that some sports require strength and stamina and may cause fatigue and aggravate Crohn’s symptoms such as abdominal pain. But in general, it is beneficial for a child with Crohn’s to maintain some level of activity, as regular moderate exercise can help the immune system.

By working together and communicating with your child’s teacher, school nurse, and healthcare team, you and your child can minimize the difficulty of coping with Crohn’s at school.  

Not only will your child need to learn to cope with Crohn’s at school, but he or she will also have to deal with the impact that the disease may have on their friends.