Children who manage an ostomy have a lot on their plate, on top of the regular stressors of navigating school and growing up. About 1 out of every 500 people in the U.S. go through life with an ostomy, so chances are your child is neither the first nor the only one at their school to have one.
With preparation, proper ostomy supplies, and support from you, kids with ostomies can find a balance between taking care of their health and just being a kid at school.
Tip #1 – Partner with School Officials
Whether your child is returning to classes or starting school with an ostomy, plan time to talk with their principal, school nurse, and homeroom teacher. This can give you a chance to explain your child’s condition and discuss accommodations, such as needing to leave the classroom to change their pouch or take care of their stoma.
Tip #2 – Plan Accommodations
Many school-aged kids with ostomies also have a 504 or Individualized Education Program (IEP) to detail the accommodations they need. This can include help from the school nurse, access to a private restroom, a space to store supplies, and permission to leave the classroom as needed.
Tip #3 – Come Prepared
Tour the school or campus with your child before classes are in session. This can help your child learn their way around and choose the closest or least crowded restrooms throughout their day.
Reduce the risk of surprises by encouraging your child to pack enough supplies to cover two to three more changes than they expect to need, just in case. Depending on your child’s needs, they may wish to pack extra:
• Ostomy bags
• Skin barrier rings
• Wafers
• Wipes
• Skin creams
• Appliance deodorants
If your child drives to school, encourage them not to keep ostomy supplies in their car. They won’t be handy there, and extreme temperatures can damage the supplies.
Tip #4 – Pay Attention to Nutrition
While many kids with ostomies don’t have dietary restrictions, some foods can be easier to digest than others. Coach your child to choose foods that won’t cause gas or diarrhea. Or include them in packing lunches and snacks to keep tummy troubles at bay.
Related reading: Simple Dietary Guidance for Ostomates
Tip #5 – Find a Support Buddy
In ostomy management, and in life, it’s important to identify someone who can help when your child needs it. Identify a trusted friend and a teacher, nurse, or other adult to help and lend a supportive ear. There may well be other students living with an ostomy at your school who can empathize with your child.
Tip #6 – Join in the Fun!
Most kids with an ostomy can participate in sports, swimming, gym class, and all the other hobbies of childhood. It is only necessary to limit activities as instructed by your child’s medical team. Consider additional supplies to complement their activities, such as a closed-end pouch to prevent leaks while swimming or protective devices to fit over the stoma for more contact-heavy sports.
If your child is struggling to connect with their peers, consider school-based or private mental health support. There are also summer camps for children with ostomies, including The Youth Rally and Champ Camp that can help kids learn to manage ostomies and build a supportive network of friends.
Living with an ostomy doesn’t have to be limiting. By making a plan and anticipating surprises, you can ensure your child is prepared at school.
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Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical advice, please speak with your healthcare provider.
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