Kids with Arthritis

Here is a checklist of ways you can help you child grow in understanding about herself, her illness, and her potential. Your response will depend upon the age of the child, but not necessarily upon the degree of arthritis she experiences.

You can discuss with the child how she is feeling, both physically and emotionally about what she thinks about different things (like not being able to do things). This helps her learn to identify her feelings, and supports open family communication.
You can ask her about what she wants to do when she is older and encourage her to think about things she is good at or enjoys. Everything is possible - finding partners, living independently, driving cars, having children, enjoying jobs or exciting hobbies - even with arthritis.
You can discuss with her what treatments she has been prescribed and why, or any options you may have. This helps children understand what is happening, about their arthritis and gives them an idea that they have the power to make some choices.
You can help her link decisions with actions and consequences. For example, you can help her link the amount of joint stiffness today with how active she was the day before. This will prepare her to take decisions about how to live with arthritis.
You can encourage your child to express what she feels about situations, treatments or other decisions. This helps her practise communicating with adults and helps her know her opinion matters to you.
You can involve the child in those decisions, and help the child know that their perspective is taken into account. It helps build their self-esteem, and sense of control rather than helplessness or dependence.

Checklist of positive ways to help your child