Parent perspectives on the educational barriers and unmet needs of children with cancer

Child Health Care. 2018;47(3):261-274. doi: 10.1080/02739615.2017.1337516. Epub 2017 Sep 18.

Abstract

Childhood cancer challenges academic success and school engagement, yet little research has described these hardships. This study documented parental perspectives of the educational barriers and unmet needs of youth treated for cancer (n = 102). Treatment-related physical sequelae were noted as common problems interfering with school attendance and engagement. One-fourth of parents reported worse academic performance since diagnosis; however, many never had their child evaluated (63.3%) or enacted formalized educational accommodations (55%). Findings reflect educational challenges across the continuum of cancer care and survivorship, and highlight the importance of education of school staff on both acute and long-term effects of cancer treatment.