2025 Schooling - Supporting your child throughout this journey.
Starting school is a significant milestone for every child and their family. For children with complex medical needs, this transition can feel even more overwhelming. At Kalkoup Clinics, we understand the challenges of this journey and are here to support families every step of the way, hence why we have put together this blogpost on how you can navigate this transition smoothly to ensure your child thrives in their new environment.
1. Start Early: Build a Strong Foundation
Preparation is key when transitioning your child into a school environment. Begin discussions with the school well before the academic year begins. Arrange meetings with key staff, such as the principal, teachers, and school nurse, to share important information about your child’s medical needs.
Early Preparation Checklist:
• Medical Plan: Work with your child’s healthcare team to create an up-to-date medical care plan tailored to the school setting.
• Individual Education Plan (IEP): Collaborate with the school to develop an IEP that includes academic, social, and health-related goals.
• Emergency Action Plan: Provide detailed instructions for managing medical emergencies, including key contacts and medication details.
2. Communicate with Key Stakeholders
Clear and open communication with the school is essential. Set up a meeting to discuss:
• Your child’s specific needs, such as medication administration, feeding requirements, mobility aids, or other supports.
• Staff training requirements, such as first aid, using medical devices, or responding to emergencies like seizures or anaphylaxis.
At Kalkoup Clinics, we offer training for support workers and school staff to help them feel confident and capable of supporting children with complex medical needs.
3. Familiarize Your Child with the School Environment
Help your child feel comfortable in their new environment by:
• Organising visits to the school to meet teachers, explore the classroom, and practise routines like arriving and leaving.
• Using social stories or visual aids to explain the school day, including breaks, lunchtime, and group activities.
• Encouraging small playdates with peers or participating in orientation programs to build familiarity and friendships.
4. Equip the School with Resources
Make sure the school has the necessary resources to support your child. These might include:
• Medical supplies and equipment (e.g., feeding tubes, oxygen tanks, or medications).
• A quiet, safe space for rest or medical care.
• Access to allied health professionals, such as occupational therapists or speech pathologists, if required.
5. Empower Your Child
Encourage independence where possible and help your child feel confident in their abilities. Teach them to communicate their needs to teachers or peers in a way that is age-appropriate and empowering.
6. Build a Support Network
Connect with other parents of children with complex medical needs. Sharing experiences, advice, and resources can make this transition feel less isolating.
7. Monitor and Adjust
Once school begins, regularly check in with teachers, support staff, and your child to monitor their progress and address any concerns. Adjust care plans as needed to ensure your child continues to thrive in the school environment.
How Kalkoup Clinics Can Help
We understand the unique challenges involved in transitioning children with complex medical needs into a school environment. Our team offers:
• Training for support workers and educators.
• Individualised care plans and resources to empower families.
• Ongoing support and guidance tailored to your child’s specific needs.
2025 is a new chapter for your child, filled with opportunities for growth and learning. With the right preparation and support, this transition can be a positive and rewarding experience for both you and your child.
Contact Kalkoup Clinics today to learn how we can support your family on this journey.
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