Date: 08/04/2025

Helping Kids with Ichthyosis Feel Safe, Included, and Confident at School  

1. Daily Skincare Support 

Before School:

• Apply prescribed moisturizer or ointment to protect skin. 

• Dress in soft, breathable clothes (cotton is best). 

• Pack lotion for use at school if needed. 

During School:

• Allow child to reapply moisturizer (especially to hands/face). 

• Provide access to water bottles and allow extra time for handwashing. 

• Let staff know skin flaking or redness is not contagious. 

After Physical Activity: 

• Allow time to cool down or change clothes. 

• Ensure they can avoid overheating or excessive sweating.  

2. Supportive School Environment

Classroom Needs: 

• Keep classroom temperature cool and use a humidifier if possible. 

• Allow hat or head covering if scalp is affected. 

• Seat away from radiators/heaters or windows with direct sun. 

• 504 Plan or IEP: 

• Consider a 504 Plan for accommodations like: 

• Extra bathroom or hydration breaks 

• Excused tardiness for skincare routines 

• Sunscreen use or indoor recess on hot days 

• Extra time for physical activity recovery 

 3. Emotional and Social Support 

Normalize Their Condition: 

• Offer the child a simple way to explain ichthyosis if they so choose (e.g., “My skin makes extra flakes, but I’m okay”). 

• Educate classmates as appropriate to reduce bullying or stigma. 

Encourage Confidence: 

• Let them choose when to participate in skincare at school. 

• Celebrate strengths: kindness, creativity, effort—not appearance. 

• Talk It Out: 

• Check in regularly at home and at school about feelings. 

• Encourage participation in FIRST's private Facebook Groups. 

 4. Communication is Key 

Build a Team: 

• Work with teachers, the nurse, PE staff, and administration. 

• Provide a simple health care plan describing symptoms, triggers, and emergency contacts

Helpful Resources 

• Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types (FIRST) www.firstskinfoundation.org

• 504 Plans for Parents 

• NORD – National Organization for Rare Disease