Children with Chronic Illnesses and ICT

Chronic illness during childhood is a challenging experience with potentially a detrimental impact on the child and the family. Chronic medical conditions in children have been significantly associated with an increased risk of learning difficulties, lower academic achievement and student engagement, increased school absenteeism not explained by health reasons alone and early school termination independent of socioeconomic status.

Children and Young People (CYP) with chronic conditions are also more likely to report poor psychosocial and quality of life outcomes including emotional vulnerability and mental health challenges, disempowerment and loss of independence and control over their lives, social isolation and a diminished sense of school belonging. 

Advances in medical knowledge and technology have increased life expectancy and contributed to improving the functional abilities of children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions. This has shifted the professional focus from treating the illness to providing holistic care and helping the child maintain quality of life and participation in the usual childhood activities where CYP with medical needs may be at risk of exclusion.

Hospital Education plays a pivotal role in facilitating the comprehensive recovery and restoration of a child’s health.

The Role of the Internet: Risks and Opportunities

The Internet can play an important role in the holistic support of CYP with medical needs by promoting continuity in education, psychosocial wellbeing and active engagement in their health management.

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Full manual - Be Internet Awesome For All

Download the complete Be Internet Awesome For All Manual covering groups of children with various individual educational needs.