How to Support Kids Fighting Cancer During the Back-to-School Season
Class is in session! Learn how to support families who are fighting pediatric cancer as the school year begins.
Whether you’re a parent of a child with cancer heading back to school, or you’re someone who wants to offer support, this guide—featuring insights from the Roc Solid Foundation team and Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) Bryan Sellitti—shares what you need to know.
For Families: Sending Your Cancer Warrior Back to School
- Safety First
Always consult your medical team to ensure your child is healthy enough to return to school. - Set Up a 504 Plan
If your child requires special accommodations (extended test time, wheelchair accessibility, hydration needs, etc.), ask the school about creating a 504 Plan. This formal document, developed under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, ensures students with disabilities have equal access to education. Unlike an IEP, a 504 can be adjusted or removed by your family at any time. - Plan for Absences
Meet with your child’s teacher before the school year begins to create a plan for unexpected absences. Consider programs like Monkey in My Chair that support children with cancer during prolonged absences. - Prepare Siblings
Avoid keeping siblings home from school out of fear they’ll bring home germs—normalcy is important for their well-being, too. Follow your medical team’s guidance and use your best judgment for any high-risk situations.
For Parents: Teaching Kids How to Support a Classmate with Cancer
- Answer Their Questions
Be a safe space for your child to ask questions. Understanding what their classmate is going through can foster empathy. Check out our Childhood Cancer Terminology Crash Course to help explain common terms. - Encourage Kindness
Cancer isn’t contagious—help your child understand this so they’re not afraid to interact. Remind them that their classmate wants to be treated like any other kid. Discourage labels like “cancer kid,” which can be hurtful. - Offer Support to the Family
If you know the family personally, offer to help—pick up assignments, arrange carpools, or assist with siblings’ after-school activities. Find more ideas in our article: How to Support a Family Fighting Pediatric Cancer. - Keep Everyone Healthy
If your child has a fever, flu or other contagious illness, keep them home. A simple virus can pose a serious risk to a child undergoing cancer treatment—and it protects the rest of the class, too.
If a Child Can’t Return to School…
Some kids who are fighting cancer can’t safely return to school due to a weakened immune system or ongoing treatments. Here’s how you can still support them:
- Don’t Be a Stranger
These families may feel isolated during the school year. A quick call, a small gift or a home-cooked meal can go a long way in showing them they’re not forgotten. - Ask What They Need
Every family is different. Ask what specific support would help them right now, and be open if their needs don’t match your offer. Flexibility and thoughtfulness go a long way. - Build a Support Network
If the family is comfortable, consider organizing a school-wide campaign to cheer on their child. Include classmates, teachers and other parents in creating cards, care packages or virtual messages of encouragement.
Key Takeaways
- Use school and community resources like 504 Plans and support programs
- Make sure families affected by childhood cancer feel included and supported
- Educate your children to be compassionate and understanding peers
- Help prevent illness—protect vulnerable classmates by staying home when sick
Follow Roc Solid Foundation on social media for more resources and to see all we do to build hope for families fighting pediatric cancer.
Join our Roc Solid Families Instagram Channel for helpful and encouraging content right to your DMs. Click here to join and share the link with other families.
If you or a family you know is fighting pediatric cancer and interested in receiving a Roc Solid Ready Bag or play structure, let us know by clicking here.
