Back-To-School!

The start of a new school year is right around the corner! Whether this means being dropped off in the mornings, or taking classes at home, we’re here to explain your child’s school options as well as ways POST can assist during this fun time!

Back to School

We encourage children to attend school when it is medically possible, and for parents to make school a priority.

Hospital Homebound

Hospital Homebound is designed to meet your child’s academic needs during a time when they are unable to physically attend school due to a weak immune system, for example. Alternate schooling options include a teacher coming to the home, classes over the phone, or online classes. Please speak with a POST therapist to see if this is an option for your child.

School Reentry Program

POST offers presentations through the school reentry program that are adapted to your child’s grade level to educate teachers and classmates about his or her diagnosis and treatment. Our presentations address several aspects including physical changes (i.e. hair loss), changes in life style (i.e. fitting in with classmates) and any other concerns a child or parent might have to clarify misconceptions or fears about cancer.

504 Plan

A child qualifies for a 504 plan if there is a record of impairment (cancer) that limits major life activities. A 504 plan includes physical and cognitive accommodations.

Cancer treatment that involves the Central Nervous System (CNS) often causes a number of problems that affect learning: fatigue, hearing loss, vision loss, partial paralysis or weakness, growth delays, heart damage, and problems with memory, attention, concentration or processing. While the physical issues may show some improvement or at least no further decline after treatment ends, learning issues may persist and often do not even emerge until 2-3 years after the end of treatment, particularly for children with cranial/spinal radiation, intrathecal chemotherapy, or bone marrow transplant. Your child may qualify for accommodations with regard to special needs!

Individualized Education Plan (IEP)

A IEP is developed by your school district and can vary by age or district to meet your child’s education needs.

School Advocacy

Children that are affected by cancer treatment may or may not have a physical or learning disability but there are laws that help protect the rights of students with educational needs. POST can help guide you through you and your child’s rights.

Referrals for Neuropsychological Evaluations

Children may or may not experience cognitive side effects from treatment, but issues may be seen shortly after treatment ends, while some may show 2 – 3 years after treatment. The Neuropsychological Evaluation is an interview and series of tests that evaluate functioning of intelligence, executive functioning, attention, memory, language, perception, sensorimotor functions, motivation, mood state and emotion, quality of life, and personality styles to find your child’s strengths and weaknesses.

Supplies

POST families are always welcome to stop by our office, but especially now that we have school supplies available for families.