Talking with their peers (PLAY)
Preach patience: Let your child know that most kids his or her age won't know what hemophilia is and to be patient when fielding the questions they are likely to have.
Let them know: Being up-front with friends and classmates about what activities he or she can and cannot participate in will cut down on potentially awkward situations later on.
Advocate alertness: Children with hemophilia should make it clear to their peers that they can still play most games or non-contact activities but must be prepared if something were to happen.
You be you: Make sure that children with hemophilia reinforce that although they may have a disease that makes them bleed more than others, it does not make them "different."
Communicating with your child’s school
Advise school staff ahead of time that any bleed will need to be treated immediately and that you must be contacted right away. Be aware that you may have to go to the school to give your child an infusion.
Follow this checklist:
- Provide written information on your child's hemophilia type, HTC, emergency contact, and prescribed treatment
- Explain to school staff that being overprotective is not necessary. Let them know the activities your child may take part in
- If possible, arrange a meeting between school staff and your local HTC
