Kids Get MS Too

Although MS is typically thought of as an adult-onset disease, some children and teens have been diagnosed. Children and Teens with MS: A Network for Families offers educational and psychosocial support for families living with MS. The Network is a collaborative effort of the National MS Society and the MS Society of Canada. Together we recognize the unique needs of these families.

Students with MS & the Academic Setting: A Handbook for School Personnel

Students with MS & the Academic Setting: A Handbook for School Personnel is an informational guide for school staff working with children and teens with MS. The handbook includes a discussion on the issues children and teens with MS may face, recommended accommodations and modifications in the school setting, transition issues, as well as basic information on MS.

Managing School-Related Issues: A Guide for Parents with a Child or Teen Living with MS

Managing School-Related Issues: A Guide for Parents with a Child or Teen Living with MS provides parents with the tools and resources to be their child's best advocate in the school system. The guide includes a discussion on the potential impact of MS in the school setting, recommended accommodations and modifications, transition issues, and sample 504 plans and request for academic accommodations.

The Network currently offers the following resources: 

• Parents’ Handbook
  Kids Get MS Too: A Handbook for Parents Whose Child or Teen has MS is an informational handbook containing a wide range of information pertaining to pediatric MS. The handbook was written by specialists in childhood MS.
• Virtual Community for Parents
  The Network connects parents through an online group where they can share concerns and information.
• Information and Referral
  You can receive information about MS and local resources by calling 1-800-344-4867.
• Pediatric MS: Understanding for Today, Hope for Tomorrow  A 20+ minute DVD that provides an overview of pediatric MS and how the Society is addressing the needs through programs and services and the Network of Pediatric MS Centers of Excellence. The piece includes interviews with three families with a child with MS, healthcare professionals from the six Pediatric MS Centers of Excellence, and Society staff and volunteers. The DVD is hosted by Society volunteer Channing Barker, a young adult who was diagnosed with MS in her teens.
• Your Education Rights as a Student with MS Every person has a right to strive for his or her education goals despite having a disability. This brochure explains the differences in rights and responsibilities both for students and the schools they attend.

Registration Information
For information specific to pediatric MS or to register for the Network, contact an MS Navigator      by email or call 1-800-344-4867.