5 Strategies for Teachers on How to Support Learners with Chronic Illnesses
According to the CDC, chronic illnesses affect 6 in 10 American adults, and it’s no secret that this number also includes students. A chronic illness can be a challenge for both the student and the teacher. Providing excellent support and resources for these students is crucial to their academic success. Here are 5 strategies for teachers on how to support learners with chronic illnesses.
Foster a safe and supportive environment
Create an open and inclusive classroom that supports all students, including those with chronic illnesses. Make sure that all students understand that you value their contributions, appreciate their unique needs and experiences, and are available to discuss and support their academic and personal goals. Teachers can also create a safe space for students by allowing them to discuss their illnesses and symptoms with the teacher privately, to better understand what accommodations they require, and to ensure that classroom materials and learning activities will not be physically or emotionally overwhelming.
Be aware and accommodate their needs
Some students with chronic illnesses may require accommodations to succeed academically. For example, by providing extra time for assignments and exams, or offering them more frequent breaks. Teachers can also help to ensure that students have the technology or tools they need, which may include closed captioning, audio descriptions, or assistive devices. Teachers can work with students, their families, and other educators to develop a plan to support these accommodations and promote student success.
Encourage participation and set clear expectations
Regardless of their chronic illnesses, students should feel encouraged to participate in classroom activities and events, all the while respecting their physical limitations. Teachers can encourage participation by identifying different ways for students to demonstrate their learning and expressing themselves without jeopardizing their health. This can help to make sure that students don’t feel isolated, and that they are able to engage with their peers in a meaningful way. The teacher should also set clear expectations and guidelines for students missing assignments in relation to their chronic illness, which may include providing evidence of inability to complete work on time, as well as a plan for catch-up work to maintain academic progress.
Collaborate with families and healthcare providers
Teachers can create stronger bonds of support for their students with chronic illnesses by collaborating closely with their families, as well as healthcare providers. A frequent communication routine should be established to ensure everyone is informed on how the student is doing and to minimize confusion of their needs and administered care . Parents and guardians may also have valuable insights into how the student’s illness may affect their learning, physical limitations, or any other related problem, thus working together will ensure the student’s needs are meet.
Show empathy and understanding
Students with chronic illnesses can often feel frustrated, overwhelmed, and isolated. To create a safe and inclusive environment, teachers should always practice empathy, which means trying to understand their feelings genuinely. By acknowledging the student’s difficulties and being supportive, teachers can help to reduce the emotional toll on them and create a positive learning experience. Having a supportive community, from peers, teachers, and family, can make all the difference.
Conclusion
In conclusion, chronic illnesses can have a profound impact on student success. However, with the creation of a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment, working closely with healthcare providers and families, as well as providing accommodations that respect the student’s needs, teachers will benefit from the enhanced engagement and participation of students that will undoubtedly lead to better academic performance. Teachers who demonstrate empathy, understanding, and flexibility, can help students with chronic illnesses navigate their academic experience with success and a feeling of connectedness with both their own learning and to those around them.
