Many parents report problems with their school or day care not listening to their child's needs with Celiac Disease. Many requests are simple, such as not feeding the child crackers or cookies. Other request include heating gluten free meals provided by the parents or preparing special meals. Some requests are honored; others are met with resistance.
Are your child's needs being met? If not, what can you do about it? According to federal law, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the "No Child Left Behind" policy, schools are required to provide for students with special needs. Often these accomodations focus on the student with educational needs. However, part of the requirement also protects students with hidden disabilities. Under current law, hidden disabilities include any learning disability, diabetes, epilepsy and allergy. It also includes disabilities such as low vision, poor hearing, heart disease, and diseases of different organ systems, such as the digestive disease. Although Celiac Disease is not mentioned specifically, it is covered in the broad description of hidden disabilities. The American With Disabilities Act also covers individuals suffering from disabilities.
It is important for parents to be aware of the federal law and guidelines so that they can best advocate for the provision of their children's needs within the school system.
YOU are the best advocate for your child! Be prepared and know your child's rights.
Adopted from the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia Newsletter, 2/27/2004. To sign up for the newsletter, send an email to: celiac@columbia.edu.
