Supporting your child
Parents and caregivers play an important role in managing JIA. You can support your child by:
- Learning about JIA and staying informed
- Asking questions and talking with your healthcare team
- Understanding your child’s medicines and possible side effects
- Knowing how to recognise and manage flares
- Encouraging your child to return to normal activities
- Supporting school attendance and daily routines
- Helping others understand your child’s condition
- Encouraging your child to be involved in their care
- Reaching out for help and support when needed
Living well with JIA
Exercise
Staying active supports overall health. A physiotherapist can guide suitable exercises.
Fatigue
Encourage good sleep routines and balance activity with rest.
Pain management
Strategies may include:
- Relaxation and mindfulness
- Deep breathing
- Heat or cold packs
Nutrition
A healthy, balanced diet is recommended. There is no specific diet for JIA.
Emotional wellbeing
Living with a long-term condition can affect mental health. Support is available through your healthcare team and organisations such as Arthritis NZ.
Your child’s healthcare team
Care is provided by a multidisciplinary team. This may include:
- Paediatric rheumatologist
- Nurse specialist
- Physiotherapist
- Occupational therapist
Other professionals may include:
- GP and nurses
- Ophthalmologist
- Dietitian
- Pharmacist
- Social worker
- Psychologist or counsellor
- Teachers
Your child’s team will work with you to plan care and support your child’s needs.