Tips to keep kids with special health care needs Healthy and in school

Many families are transitioning back to their pre-pandemic school routines, and children with special health care needs are no exception. However, these children may be at a higher risk of serious illness. Today, I want to share some tips on how to keep your child with special health care needs healthy and thriving in school.

One of the most crucial steps you can take is to review your child's Individualized Education Program, or IEP, and their 504 plan. These plans should be updated to meet your child's specific needs. If you find that the current plans aren't sufficient, work with your school to make necessary adjustments.

Stopping the spread of illness is key. Find out what actions your school is taking to protect students, especially those at higher risk. For example, wearing masks indoors can significantly protect kids with special health needs in areas with medium or high levels of COVID-19. Many schools provide masks at no or low cost. Also, ask if your school has improved its ventilation, air conditioning, and heating systems, as these changes help reduce the spread of diseases.

Next, request a health plan. Work with your pediatrician to create a comprehensive health plan with recommendations for the school. This plan should outline ways to protect your child from contagious diseases, such as sanitizing equipment and avoiding shared toys or tools.

Creating a sick plan is also essential. Collaborate with your pediatrician to establish a plan in case your child gets sick at school. This plan should include which medications to give, early warning signs or symptoms to watch for, and when to call 911. Examples include action plans for conditions like seizures and asthma.

Encourage and celebrate positive behaviors at home, such as hand washing before eating and after using the bathroom or touching shared objects. Remind your child that hand washing helps keep everyone healthy at school.

Finally, keeping your child's immune system healthy is crucial. Immunizations make it harder for viruses like influenza and COVID-19 to spread. When everyone gets vaccinated, children with special health care needs stay healthier.

Remember, you can always ask your pediatrician for guidance on how to advocate for your child's needs in school. They can connect your family with home and community-based services to ensure your child is on the right path to success. We are always here to help!

Dr. Melanie Suaris is a board certified pediatrician serving Nicklaus Children’s Pediatric Care Center at Galloway (Kendall)

https://www.nicklauschildrens.org/blog

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