How leukaemia affects a child's schooling

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology
• Educational Psychology

Background:

• Children undergoing leukaemia treatment often face unique challenges impacting their education.
• Understanding teacher perceptions is crucial for supporting these students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess school attendance, teacher perceptions, and academic attainments of children with leukaemia compared to their siblings.
• To identify areas for improved school-hospital collaboration.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire was administered to teachers of children with leukaemia and their siblings.
• Data collected included attendance rates, teacher perceptions, and academic/behavioral assessments.

Main Results:

• Children with leukaemia had higher absence rates (41.5%) than siblings (15.6%).
• Teachers reported difficulties and modified expectations for leukaemic children.
• Academic attainments were comparable, though slightly lower for children with leukaemia.

Conclusions:

• Leukaemia significantly impacts school attendance and requires tailored teaching approaches.
• Closer liaison between schools and hospitals can benefit teachers and students.