School

Transitioning to College: Healthcare Management

By JennBechard | December 13, 2021 |

For many young adults living with hydrocephalus, college is the first time they are managing their medical condition(s) on their own, particularly if the individual has moved away from home to live on campus. For this reason, it is important to put into place a plan for local care, particularly in the event of a medical emergency.

Transitioning to College: Academics

By JennBechard | December 13, 2021 |

There are a lot of moving parts once a student with hydrocephalus commits to a college and moves on to requesting accommodations (for those that need them), honing their self-advocacy skills, and preparing to navigate their health and wellness needs independently.

Choosing the Right College

By JennBechard | December 13, 2021 |

Alongside the typical comparisons for choosing a college, like cost, distance from home, academic major, etc., students with hydrocephalus should consider proximity to a medical center with neurosurgical care as well as compare the services and supports that the school offers.

College Status and Leave Policies

By JennBechard | December 13, 2021 |

Students with hydrocephalus may require more flexibility in their college experience, due to unpredictable hospitalization, medical procedures, and illness. It’s important for students and families to understand the policies on full- and part-time student status as well as leaves of absence before committing to a school.

College Programs for Academic and Accessibility Support

By JennBechard | December 13, 2021 |

Academic support varies across colleges, from peer tutoring and writing centers to specialized programs to schools completely built around educating students with learning disabilities. Additionally, some schools are well known for their inclusive approach to physical accessibility.

Differences Between High School and College Accommodations

By JennBechard | December 13, 2021 |

It is important for students and families to understand that the services, supports, and accommodations that a student received in high school may not be available in the college setting. The responsibility for requesting and managing accommodations also rests fully on the student, unless a FERPA waiver is on file with the school.

The College Search

By JennBechard | December 13, 2021 |

There is a lot to consider when thinking about transitioning to college with hydrocephalus. Beyond the typical considerations around academic fit and cost, you will also need to think about your medical needs and what accommodations and support are available on campus.

Mental Health and Wellness for College Students

By JennBechard | December 13, 2021 |

College is an exciting time for many students but it can also be overwhelming, as students transition to a more independent lifestyle with new academic and social pressures. It can be a lot for some students, but many colleges are actively working to provide holistic support to student health and wellness.

Teacher’s Guide: Late Elementary (Grades 3-5)

By JennBechard | March 26, 2021 |

Our Teachers’ Guides address common learning challenges faced by many children with hydrocephalus as well as their needs in mainstream classrooms.

Teacher’s Guide: Early Elementary (K-2nd)

By JennBechard | March 26, 2021 |

Our Teachers’ Guides address common learning challenges faced by many children with hydrocephalus as well as their needs in mainstream classrooms.

Teacher’s Guide to Hydrocephalus: High School

By JennBechard | March 25, 2021 |

Our Teachers’ Guides address common learning challenges faced by many children with hydrocephalus as well as their needs in mainstream classrooms.

african american kid writing in school

Teachers’ Guide: Middle School (6th-8th)

By JennBechard | March 25, 2021 |

Our Teachers’ Guides address common learning challenges faced by many children with hydrocephalus as well as their needs in mainstream classrooms.

Health Challenges and School

By JennBechard | March 18, 2021 |

Hydrocephalus, as well as the other medical conditions that can accompany it, can have an impact on a child’s ability to participate fully in school.

My Thoughts for Teachers

By JennBechard | March 3, 2021 |

Sarah Kell, an adult living with hydrocephalus, offers thoughts for teachers when working with a child with hydrocephalus.

Balancing Work, School, and Hydrocephalus

By JennBechard | January 28, 2021 |

In this blog, Carly shares the important takeaways about what it means to balance parts of your life along with hydrocephalus.

Back To School Checklist

By JennBechard | January 20, 2021 |

It’s that time of the year – back to school time! Here is a checklist that includes a couple of simple tips for starting the school year on the right foot.

The Benefits of Informing Your Child’s School about Their Hydrocephalus

By JennBechard | January 20, 2021 |

Informing your child’s school about hydrocephalus is important. Read these tips to ensure that you’re prepared when talking to the school about your child’s condition.

Get on the Right Career Track

By JennBechard | January 20, 2021 |

When choosing a career, college major, or educational program, it’s important to take the time to explore your options.

Learning Disabilities in Children with Hydrocephalus

By JennBechard | August 18, 2020 |

Learning disabilities (difficulties) are not uncommon in kids with hydrocephalus. Parents must be prepared to act early to give their child the best chance for success.

Individualized Education Program (IEP)

By JennBechard | August 18, 2020 |

Guidance for parents so they can learn how to develop and maintain good communication between with school personnel.