Navigating pediatric Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease (CD) doesn’t have to stop your child from living a full life. A little planning can go a long way in helping them feel prepared and confident. Partner with your child’s care team to come up with a plan that works for your child and your family.

Living with
Crohn’s disease

Teen Crohn's disease patient staying active outdoors

Living with a chronic disease has its challenges. Every day is different, but learning to prioritize your child’s health and wellness can help make sure they feel their best.

Talking about
Crohn’s disease

Real Talk

Reassure your child

A flare-up doesn’t mean you’re going to feel this way forever. You may need a check up to get your body back on track.

Teen Crohn's disease patient talking with a friend

Mental health

Living with IBD can be challenging for children and teens, both physically and emotionally.

Here are some ways you can help support your child’s mental health:

Encourage open conversations about IBD. Give them your full attention and ask questions to keep the conversation going.
Check in with them often about friendships, school, sports, or interests. Encourage them to find and continue activities that they enjoy and make them feel good.
Give them space if they need it.
Encourage them to stay physically active if their healthcare team says it’s okay.
Engage a mental health professional.

Learn more

Support outside the home

School accommodations

When managing CD, school life can present unique challenges. As a care partner, proactive communication with your child’s school is key.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation suggests discussing a 504 plan with your child’s teachers and administration.

Read the fact sheet

Camp Oasis

Camp Oasis is run by the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, and it’s a place where school-aged children living with Crohn’s disease can learn about their condition and how to become more confident. This can be a really positive and foundational experience for your child—it’s worth looking into!

Learn more

Links to third-party websites are provided as resources and not intended to be an endorsement. Takeda is not responsible for their content.

Real Talk

Reassure your child

Crohn’s disease doesn’t stop you from going to the college of your choice or traveling. It just means you may need to plan ahead.

Growing up with CD

Setting goals

When it comes to goals, your child’s healthcare provider may share their medical perspective, but only you know what truly matters for your family’s day-to-day life.

To support your child:

Think about your child’s individual goals.
Share those goals with your child’s care team.
Work with the care team to find a treatment plan that works for your child.
Use the patient portal to communicate with healthcare providers between visits.

Transitioning to adult care

For older teens with Crohn’s disease, moving from pediatric to adult healthcare is a major step that may involve learning some new skills.

You may want to help them:

Develop the skills to manage their own medical care, including taking medications.
Stay engaged with their healthcare team about overall health, including vaccinations and oral care.
Talk to their doctor about alcohol use and smoking.
Become more confident talking about their CD to their healthcare team, family, and friends.

Guide your teen through the transition to adulthood with resources built for this next stage.

Learn more