08/12/2026
As kids across Arkansas head back to the classroom, we’re thinking about the students who may be carrying a little more to school each day.
For kids living with juvenile arthritis, pain, fatigue, stiffness, medical appointments, and missed school can make a typical school day anything but typical.
A few things can make a big difference:
💚 Speak with teachers early about JA and how it affects your child.
💚 Make sure teachers have a copy of your child’s 504 plan or IEP (if applicable)
💚 Ask about accommodations like extra time, help with note-taking, modified homework, or flexibility during flares.
💚 Build in opportunities to stretch and move throughout the school day.
Most importantly, listen to your child. Their needs may change from day to day, and having a school team that understands can make all the difference.
Here’s to a school year where every kid has the support they need to learn, participate, and just be a kid.
For more about JA and going back to school: https://www.arthritis.org/juvenile-arthritis/school-and-college