The Information Book Edition 3 - Paediatric Integrated Cancer Service

Cancer Council Tasmania offers post-secondary education and trainingscholarships for young people between 16-25 years who have been affectedby cancer directly or through an immediate family member (sibling, parent,guardian, spouse or child). For more information and application form contact03 6233 2030 or email seizetheday@cancertas.org.auTransition back to schoolWith approval and encouragement from his/her consultant oncologist,a student can make a gradual return to school when they are feeling ready.The initial return to school may be brief as fatigue and reduced levels ofconcentration are ongoing issues during and post chemotherapy and/orradiotherapy treatment. This may make the reintegration back into schoolroutines a very daunting process for both the child and the parents. It isimportant to provide support to the parents through this transition processto alleviate their anxiety about the child restarting school.It is therefore helpful to encourage students and their families to choose timesand classes that will provide a positive experience for them (eg. favouritesubjects, specialist classes) and ensure support structures are organised inadvance for the student.Scheduling the school return or visit with recess/play or lunchtime provides anopportunity for the student to reconnect with his/her peers. The school mayneed to provide a quiet space where the child/young person can meet withsmall groups of peers during these class breaks. Create a quiet classroomspace for the student to take time out or to rest, eg. a beanbag in the readingarea, a headset with meditation or relaxing music. The school sickbay is not anideal resting space, as chemotherapy suppresses immunity and the studentmay be more susceptible to everyday germs and viruses. Upon returning toschool, there may be fluctuating periods of wellness and illness and morningmedical/personal routines may take some time. Shorter school days andflexible schedules will assist in accommodating the student’s needs.School photosBeing a valued member of the school community despite their absence isimportant for children managing a chronic illness. In the student’s absenceit is possible to contact the photo company and enquire how the family cansupply a photo to be superimposed on the class group photo.Caring for your child and family Sec.4.23Updated July 2012