Educational Services for Children with Chronic Illnesses: Perspectives of Educators and Families

Two parallel studies examined schools' and families' perceptions of the needs of children with chronic illnesses. Samples of 80 California school districts and 72 families were interviewed regarding types of chronic illnesses and school services, perceptions of and barriers to services, strategies for overcoming barriers, and fears and concerns of children with chronic illnesses. Most students were served in regular classes or at home. The most common barriers named by districts were funding and lack of public and staff awareness. Barriers named by families included teachers' misunderstanding of the child's needs and misinformation about the illness. Families focused on social-emotional issues and the impact of illness on their child's life; districts emphasized school absences and falling behind in schoolwork.