MCHS & Children's Cancer Centre Prep Transition Program

MCHS & Children’s Cancer Centre Prep Transition Program

This month the Monash Children’s Hospital School Children’s Cancer Centre teachers conducted a pilot ‘Prep Transition Program’ to help support oncology students and families as they enter their first year of primary school.

Three sessions were held, with an opportunity for the children to practice their social skills together and further prepare for Prep.

While the students were busy in the classroom, parent information sessions were held by the following professionals:

Neuropsychology

• the impacts of cancer related fatigue
• cancer related changes to cognition

Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy

• effects of cancer on language
• fine motor skill development

Monash Children’s Hospital School

• services offered to students, their families and base schools

Dietician

• nutrition problems on treatment
• nutrition related side effects
• breakfast, lunch ideas and snacks

The program was a success, with relevant and informative content being shared, as well as easing anxieties and concerns that parents may have. It was also a wonderful opportunity for teachers to establish the relationships with the children, families and schools before the prep school year begins.