Written By Reina Beach | Co-Founder of Hello Brave
One of the most challenging aspects of cancer treatment for a child is the time spent away from school. Whether it’s occasional absences or extended periods, being away from the classroom can make a child feel isolated and disconnected from their peers. This was something I felt deeply as a mother when my son Elliott was undergoing treatment. The desire to keep him connected to the normalcy of school life was always on my mind, and that’s where the Monkey in My Chair program became a lifeline for us.
When Elliott started missing school due to his treatment, I worried about how he would stay connected with his classmates. Then, we discovered Monkey in My Chair—a program that provides "monkey kits" to preschool and elementary-aged children who are away from school because of a cancer diagnosis. Each kit includes a large stuffed monkey that takes the child’s place in the classroom when they can’t be there. This monkey wasn’t just a toy; it became a symbol of Elliott’s presence, helping to keep him connected with his friends. His monkey sat at his desk, went to lunch, and even participated in classroom activities in his absence. It was heartwarming to know that his classmates still felt his presence even when he couldn’t physically be there.
But Monkey in My Chair didn’t just keep Elliott connected—it also provided practical support. The kit included a backpack for Elliott to carry items to and from treatments, a children’s book to help his classmates understand what he was going through, a teacher companion guide with resources, and other thoughtful items for both him and his friends. The most remarkable part of the program, though, was the Monkey Message online portal. This tool allowed Elliott to share pictures, documents, and even participate in regular educational activities with his classmates. It ensured that the line of communication stayed open, which not only kept Elliott engaged with his school community but also helped his classmates feel involved in supporting their friend.
These kits are provided at no cost to families or hospitals, making them an accessible and invaluable resource during such a challenging time. Incorporating the Monkey in My Chair program into your child’s school plan can make a significant difference in how they stay connected with their peers and maintain a sense of normalcy during their treatment.
Navigating the Back-to-School Transition: What to Expect
Returning to school after cancer treatment is more than just picking up where things left off. It’s about helping your child adjust to the changes they’ve experienced, whether physical, emotional, or social. When Elliott was preparing to return to school, I was filled with concerns—how would his peers react? Would he be able to keep up with schoolwork? What precautions did we need to take to keep him safe?
One of the first steps in this transition is communication. It’s essential to have open discussions with your child’s teachers, school nurse, and administration about their needs and any accommodations that may be necessary. This might include extra time for assignments, a quiet place to rest during the day, or plans for keeping your child safe from infections.
Tools and Resources to Share with Teachers and Classmates
To help ease the transition, here are some tools and resources that can be invaluable for parents to share with teachers and classmates:
Teacher's Guide: Providing a guide to your child’s diagnosis and treatment can help teachers understand what your child has been through and what to expect in terms of energy levels, concentration, and emotional needs.
Classroom Presentation: Consider working with the teacher to create a simple presentation for classmates. This can help demystify the situation, address any misconceptions, and encourage classmates to be supportive.
Books and Resources: Sharing age-appropriate books about illness can help classmates empathize and understand what their friend has gone through. Our books, “A Brave Kid’s Guide to Lymphoma” and “A Brave Kid’s Guide to Leukemia” are great tools for this.
School Counselor Support: Engage the school counselor in supporting your child’s emotional needs. They can work with your child individually or lead group sessions with classmates to foster understanding and empathy.
As your child prepares to return to school, remember that this transition is a significant step toward reclaiming a sense of normalcy. With the right tools, resources, and support, your child can reintegrate into school life with confidence, feeling connected, supported, and loved.
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