When you have a child with osteoporosis, you quickly come to know a lot about what your child needs to stay healthy and safe.
Part of your role as a parent is to share this information with others so that your child can be safe in many environments.
Who should I talk to about my child's osteoporosis?
At school or daycare
- Teachers, teaching assistants, school principals, recess supervisors
- Babysitters, child minders or daycare providers
Out-of-school activities
- Summer camp counsellors or camp supervisors
- Sports coaches — they can advise on whether your child should take part in a game or involve your child in other ways, for example by having them as an assistant coach or scorekeeper
Health-care providers
- Doctors, nurses, X-ray technicians, phlebotomists (people trained to draw blood for tests) and other health-care providers who may not be familiar with your child
Friends and family
- Your child's friends and their parents
- Your family members, neighbours and friends
What information should I give others about my child?
You may need to tell others:
- what makes your child comfortable
- how to handle your child
- how to encourage to play or do other activities safely
- what activities your child must avoid
- how to recognize and respond to a fracture in your child.
Resources
National Institute of Health (2013). Publications on bone health, osteoporosis and osteogenesis imperfecta.
International Osteoporosis Foundation (2013). Bone health brochures.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation (2013). Osteogenesis Imperfecta: A Guide for Medical Professionals, Individuals and Families affected by OI.