13 Tips for Going Back to School With Juvenile Arthritis

Heading back to school with juvenile arthritis (JA) can be tricky on your joints. Follow this list from elementary to high school to make the most out of your school year!

1. Apply for a government disability code (IPP). This recognizes that you have a physical disability and allows you to use accommodations in the classroom.

2. Ask your physiotherapist to write a list of accommodations that you can distribute to teachers and gym instructor.

3. Ask for extra time on tests, computer use for in-class essays, and extensions on assignments when you are away for an appointment.

4. Ask for printed copies of notes or have power points emailed to you. Have your teachers prepare pre-packaged notes for infusion days! Don’t let your disease impact your grades.

5. Make sure to empty out your overflowing binder to reduce the weight you carry. Use two sets of textbooks (for at home and in your locker).

6. Use pencil grips!

7. Use a laptop, iPad and voice recognition software.

8. Back to school fashion doesn’t have to been a strain on your joints. Look for comfortable foot wear (Birkenstocks or Nike) and find a trendy backpack. Don’t hurt your joints by wearing flats or using a satchel.

9. Get a locker in a central location and ask for elevator access.

10. Circle multiple-choice answers instead of bubbling in a Scantron or ask about oral testing.

11. Take advantage of zipper pulls, velcro, easy-to-open containers/water bottles

12. Keep your teachers and gym teachers informed. Fatigue and sore joints can be misinterpreted. Don’t let your participation marks fall behind!

13. Modify gym activities. Participate in sports that you can do and take breaks!