The return to school after a prolonged period of illness can be a difficult transition. Children and teenagers often have questions and concerns about how their friends and classmates may respond to their illness or their return to school. Classmates of all ages often have misconceptions about what cancer is and how it affects them. Sometimes even school administrators may be unsure as to what restrictions may exist for a child or teenager returning to school.

Hassenfeld’s School Re-Entry Program staff answers questions and dispels myths associated with returning to school after a prolonged absence. We can help patients transition back to school through:

• Individual counseling,
• Classroom presentations, and
• Meetings with school administrators, teachers, or nurses. 

The School Re-Entry Program is designed to take part at any time during a patient’s illness. We can meet with the school after initial diagnosis, before returning to school, or after a child has returned to school. If you would like more information about the School Re-Entry Program, please contact your social worker or child life specialist.