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Going Back to School After a Burn Injury

Returning to school is a big step in recovery—and an important one for your child’s healing and growth.

School is more than just classes. It's where kids build confidence, stay connected with friends, and regain a sense of routine. Planning ahead and working closely with the school and your care team can make the return feel safe and supported.


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Why School Matters After a Burn Injury

Going back to school helps children feel like themselves again. It restores structure and supports emotional healing. Even if your child feels nervous—about changes in their appearance, abilities, or routine—being in a familiar place with friends and teachers can make a big difference. 

Key points to know:

  • Most children return to school about 7–10 days after going home. 

  • A full return may take time—half days or alternating days are great first steps. 

  • Early planning with your child, school staff, and health care team helps make the transition smoother. 

How and When to Start Planning

Start talking about the return to school as soon as your child is medically stable. This allows time to build the right plan for their needs. Steps to take: 

Call the school

within a few days of the injury. Ask a care team member to call if needed.

Notify key staff,

like the principal, teachers, and guidance counselor.

Designate a contact person

at school to coordinate updates and questions.

Stay connected

to classmates through cards, drawings, or messages.

Ask for schoolwork

early—it helps your child feel included and motivated.

Talk openly

with your child about going back. Start these conversations while still in the hospital.

These behaviors can come and go and may resurface as new challenges arise. 

Preparing Your Child Emotionally and Socially

The return to school is easier when your child feels prepared and supported, especially around friends and classmates. 

Tips to help:

  • Encourage visits with close friends, in person or online. 

  • Help your child decide what they’d like to share with others. 

  • Use drawings or journals to help them tell their story. 

  • Talk through worries, especially about how others might react to scars or changes. 

  • Ask your care team—child life specialists, therapists, or social workers can help with this prep. 

Accommodations Schools Can Provide

Students recovering from injury may need support to fully participate in school life. A guidance counselor or social worker often helps coordinate reasonable accommodations to meet the student’s needs.

Examples of accommodations: 

A flexible schedule—like half-days or breaks between classes

Help with note-taking or using special tools

Physical assistance for tasks like using the bathroom or getting dressed

Extra time for tests if focus or memory is affected

Modified PE to fit your child’s abilities

Help with medical needs during the day (e.g., stretching, garments, or medication)

These accommodations are often temporary and can be adjusted as your child gains strength. 

Types of School Re-Entry Programs

Re-entry plans vary based on your child’s needs and personality. 

Structured programs may include:

  • Sample letters for classmates and teachers 

  • Class presentations or videos 

  • Guest speakers from burn centers 

  • Materials from national programs like The Journey Back 

Informal programs may include:

  • A letter or call from the burn team 

  • A one-time school visit by a care provider 

  • Guidance to teachers on your child’s capabilities and needs 

Discuss with the care team what fits best. Consider things like your child’s comfort with attention, use of pressure garments, or if they’re returning to a new school. 

Helping Your Child After the Return

Even with preparation, there may be ups and downs. Keep an open line of communication with your child and the school. 

Ongoing support tips: 

Check in

regularly with teachers and counselors, especially in the first few weeks.

Be your child's advocate

Speak up about any issues or support needs.

Help your child problem-solve

If teasing happens, brainstorm responses together.

Practice coping strategies

Role-play social situations or write out what to say.

Take care of yourself

Your well-being helps your child stay grounded and strong.

Related Resources

Find a Burn Center
Build Your Child's Resilience
Social Interaction After Burn Injury
The Phoenix Society

Disclaimer 

This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Talk to your health care provider about the best path forward for your child. 

Attribution 

Adapted from the MSKTC factsheet Going Back to School After Burn Injury, with contributions from medical experts and burn survivors.