Supporting your child with Crohn's or Colitis

Last full review: November 2024

Next review date: November 2027

child and adult talking

If your child has been diagnosed with Crohn’s or Colitis, it’s natural to feel worried about what this could mean for them and your family. But there’s lots you can do to help your child live life to the fullest.

This information looks at:

  • How Crohn’s or Colitis might affect your child
  • The treatments your child might be offered
  • Tips for everyday life
  • Things you can do to help your child
  • Ways to look after yourself and your own wellbeing

The information is aimed at parents of children under 16, but a lot will still be relevant if your child is older.

This information might use words you have not heard before. Our page on medical words can help provide an explanation.

Download this information (PDF)

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  • Key facts about supporting a child with Crohn's or Colitis
  • If your child has been diagnosed
  • About Crohn's and Colitis
  • Tests
  • Treatments
  • Supporting your child
  • Living with Crohn’s or Colitis
  • Support for you
  • Other organisations
  • About this information

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Helpline service

Helpline
Service

We know it can be difficult to live with, or support someone living with these conditions. But you’re not alone. We provide up-to-date, evidence-based information and can support you to live well with Crohn’s or Colitis.

Our helpline team can help by:

  • Providing information about Crohn’s and Colitis.

  • Listening and talking through your situation.

  • Helping you to find support from others in the Crohn’s and Colitis community.

  • Providing details of other specialist organisations.

Please be aware we’re not medically or legally trained. We cannot provide detailed financial or benefits advice or specialist emotional support.

Please contact us via telephone, email or LiveChat - 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (except English bank holidays).

Live chat

If you need specific medical advice about your condition, your GP or IBD team will be best placed to help.

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