Younger Schoolchildren
The early school years usually refer to junior and senior kindergarten, and grade one to grade three. These early school years can be the most worrisome for parents and families of a child with hemophilia—and the most exciting and emotionally challenging for the child. These younger schoolchildren start to be exposed to the larger world from which their parents have, for the most, part shielded them until now. Meeting new friends, experiencing a new, ever-changing environment, and learning how to follow rules and share are just a few of the challenges faced.
Discovering Their World
Children of this age are learning and mastering the following developmental tasks:
- Basic physical and intellectual skills
- Socially relating with peers and adults
- Appropriate communication skills
- Becoming a valued member of the family unit and of a group (e.g., of the class at school)
This is the time when many parents and caregivers are afraid to cut the ties. Apprehension is very normal for parents. Many worry about their child's safety in the school setting, and the extent to which their child can participate in physical activities. This can be a time of emotional outbursts at home as the child is learning a new and demanding routine. Until the hours of sleep catch up with the child's needs, families may be facing a very cranky and tired child on their hands.
Children with hemophilia will be just as tired as children without—having hemophilia will not affect the energy level of your child. But don't hesitate to contact your Hemophilia Treatment Centre (HTC) with any concerns you may have about how a child's hemophilia may or may not be affecting him at this age. The hemophilia nurse and other team members have a wealth of experience in this area and are there to help parents and families through this new stage.
Helping Children Learn to Accept Treatment
The early school years are often when younger schoolchildren learn how to "hide" a bleed in order to avoid treatment. Children of this age may have fears about needles or worry that needing treatment will mean having to miss a favourite activity.
While the child's fears and concerns are valid, it's important not to give in to them. Infusions will likely be an ongoing event in the child's life, so a positive approach now to receiving treatment for a bleed will pay off in the long run. Reinforce to the child that the factor will make the bleed better and allow them to return to regular activities sooner. Always instill a feeling of well-being and safety when talking about going to the hospital or treatment centre for an infusion. And if you're not already performing infusions at home, talk to your nurse coordinator about getting the proper training, as home infusions can be less stressful and disruptive to both the child and the family.
This period of a child's growth and development is when they begin to learn more about their care and can start taking a part in their hemophilia treatment. Their natural curiosity and desire for accomplishment can be directed to help make them not just a part of, but even the "captain" of, their own hemophilia care team.
Participating in Activities
These early school years are when kids start wanting to join extracurricular activities such as Beavers, swimming classes, music lessons, and sports teams. These extra activities outside of school are very important for a child's social and emotional development. Generally, as long as you check out what's involved in the activity or club—and share correct, comprehensive information about the child's condition and any limitations with program leaders—the child should be allowed to join. Once again, your Hemophilia Treatment Centre can help you with guidelines about which activities are safe and which are risky, and can even talk to program supervisors for you.
It's natural to have lots of questions about the care and treatment of your or your loved one's younger schoolchild. You'll find a great deal of useful information on this website, but just remember that for medical advice, always contact your doctor, nurse coordinator, or other Hemophilia Treatment Centre staff member.