Taking inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to school

Has your child recently been diagnosed with a chronic gastrointestinal (GI) disorder? Children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and other GI disorders often miss school for doctor’s appointments, surgeries, flare-ups and side effects from their medications. Despite their illness, many of these children still go to school and have the same responsibilities as other kids, like completing homework and participating in classroom activities.

Parents and teachers play a big role in helping students with chronic GI conditions succeed in te classroom. The team at Children’s HealthSM is here to provide expert support and guidance to help kids thrive at school.

About chronic GI disorders

Chronic GI conditions are lifelong illnesses that usually don’t have a cure. Children with these conditions deal with a wide range of symptoms which can include stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea and other uncomfortable stomach problems. Common chronic GI disorders include:

What is IBD?

IBD is a chronic, life-altering condition that includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease . It causes inflammation in the GI tract anywhere from the mouth to the anus. It’s one of the most common GI disorders in children and impacts about 80,000 children in the U.S. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, fatigue and joint pain. IBD impacts a child’s growth and development, eating habits, bathroom habits, mood, ability to focus and overall quality of life.

School accommodation plans for children with IBD and other Chronic GI conditions

To help provide the best environment and comfort for your child, it’s important to:

Choose a school accommodation plan: 504 or IEP
Develop accommodations for your child’s needs
Communicate with teachers and educators about your child’s condition

Children with IBD and other chronic GI illnesses are entitled to special arrangements at school to help them achieve their academic goals. School accommodation plans include:

A 504 plan, a formal list of conditions that make sure your child receives academic support and equal treatment in the classroom. A 504 plan is recommended for students who only need minor accommodations in school, like a bathroom pass or a little extra time to complete classroom assignments. A 504 usually requires a doctor’s note and some paperwork. It is not a legal contract.
An IEP plan, a legal contract between the school administration, student, and parents/guardians. This is recommended for students who require major accommodations or changes in educational instruction. This plan is especially helpful for children who will be missing a lot of school. An IEP requires more documentation and needs to be approved by the U.S. Department of Education.

These plans need to be formally reviewed and approved each year. We recommend having an accommodation plan at the start of every school year, updating the plan when changes need to be made and informing the school of these changes. Having clear and open communication with your child’s school and their teacher is important to make sure your child’s needs are met and they have the right accommodations.

What are some of the first steps in creating a school accommodation plan?

When developing an accommodation plan, it’s important to understand your child’s symptoms, needs and limitations. Meet with your child’s doctor and teacher to discuss what’s best for your child. Ask your doctor for an official letter that confirms your child’s diagnosis and contact the school for additional paperwork that may be needed.

From there, create an accommodation plan that will reduce school barriers that might impact your child’s ability to learn and privately care for any medical needs that they may have. For example, children with GI disorders may need access to a private bathroom so they can have privacy when experiencing symptoms like diarrhea. A private bathroom is also a good resource for children who need to empty their colostomy bag or change their diapers or undergarments.

What types of accommodations are helpful for children with IBD and other chronic GI illnesses?

Building an accommodation plan is important for your child’s comfort, medical needs, and ability to be successful in school. These plans also help create a sense of normalcy for your child. Children with IBD and other chronic GI disorders may need accommodations like:

An unrestricted bathroom pass
Access to a private bathroom to change clothes or empty their colostomy bag
Ability to sit closely to the classroom door to get to the restroom as quickly as possible
Safe space to rest or lie down when tired, like the nurse’s office
Being able to store medical supplies in a discreet place they can access at any time, like the nurse’s office
Having a remote education or home-bound education plan in place at the start of the school year
Being allowed to make up school assignments without penalty
Extra time on timed activities or tests (stop-the-clock testing)
Physical education passes or alternate activity that are less strenuous
Having access to food or water any time throughout the day

How teachers can help students with GI Disorders

Understanding your students’ condition and providing them with compassionate support is the best way to help them succeed in school. GI disorders not only cause mild to severe symptoms but emotional and social stress as well. Many children with GI disorders deal with sudden bouts of pain or diarrhea, which can be disruptive and embarrassing. Allowing them to leave the classroom without unwanted attention can help them feel more comfortable and at ease. Talking to their parents and knowing their accommodations are also key ways to provide caring support.

How parents can support their child

You can support your child by having an accommodation plan in place before the first day of school. Talk to your child’s teacher to help them understand your child’s condition and needs.

Plan ahead and think through school barriers that might impact your child’s comfort and ability to achieve academic goals. This is important for your child’s academic success and well-being. It's also important to talk to your child about their concerns and check in with them regularly to see how they are doing and feeling. Make adjustments as needed.

IBD program and support

Children’s Health offers a nationally ranked IBD program to help children who suffer from inflammatory bowel disease. Our pediatric gastroenterologists and GI specialists have extensive experience in caring for children with IBD. We are devoted to providing personalized care to your child so they can feel better and get back to doing the things they love.

The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation also provides helpful resources for: