[Source: The National Multiple Sclerosis Society]

While schools are familiar with various pediatric illnesses and disabilities, pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) presents some particular challenges due to the fluctuating nature of the disease, the changing needs of the child, and the disease’s relative rarity among children. These factors can come together to create an environment of isolation and uncertainty for children with MS and their families.
Parents of children with MS typically gather a vast amount of information about the disease, including how it is affecting
their child now and accommodations that others have had success with outside of school. They may not, however, have a realistic understanding of how the family/school partnership can temper their concerns for their child’s future.
This guide should assist you in providing that information as well.
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society created this handbook for school staff as a quick reference about children
living with MS. It will help you create academic accommodations and communicate with the students’ families.
It is organized into the following sections:

• Issues that Children & Teens with MS May Face
• Visible & Invisible MS Symptoms
• Cognitive Symptoms in Children &
• Accommodations & Modifications in the School Setting
• Transition Issues: The World After High School
• Transition to College
• Transition to Vocational Avenues
• Appendix: Overview of Multiple Sclerosis
• Resources & Publications

While this guide presents general information and suggestions, please be aware that each child and family experiences
MS differently.
For more information, please contact the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at 1-800-344-4867  (800-FIGHT MS)