Serious illness in a child affects many aspects of the child's life. Absence from school can cause added stress. Makeup schoolwork is usually required for children who are out of school. Too many missed weeks may cause the child to fall behind their classmates.

Private schooling is required when weeks or months at a time are missed from school. Schools are mandated to provide education for children with special health care needs. This includes homebound children and those who can still attend school. Home schooling can be given by parents, a home education agency, or your school district's home schooling program. Joint programs with home and hospital teachers are helpful.

Child life specialists help children cope with hospital stays. They focus on emotional, social, development, and education needs. Art, play, books, and even music are used to help children express their needs and concerns. Special programs:
* Help children cope with their fears and anxieties about their illness and staying in the hospital.
* Assist children in expressing feelings that they cannot put into words.
* Provide experiences that promote self-esteem.
* Foster normal growth and development.

Sick children need reassurance, diversion, sympathy, and nurturing. They also need the presence of another person to help them get better. Children that are not contagious need to spend time with their friends. This allows them to maintain friendships, play, relieve anxiety, and take their mind off their illness. Parents can prevent boredom by giving the child many uplifting, challenging, and fun experiences. Activities like games, puzzles, science projects, reading, educational and comedy videos, and drawing can spark the child's creativity and learning. A child's healing is made easier with joy and lots of hugs and love.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go