08/26/2026
Back to School with the Spokane Cleft Team!
A new school year is here! For children with cleft lip and palate, heading back to school can sometimes bring a few extra considerations, especially when it comes to speech, hearing, dental care, and feeling confident with friends and classmates.
A few resources that may help families start the year strong:
Share your child’s care needs with their teacher, school nurse, and support team.
If your child has a history of hearing concerns, consider classroom seating where they can easily see and hear the teacher.
Review your child’s IEP or 504 Plan and make sure speech or other needed accommodations are in place.
Keep up with regular dental and orthodontic care throughout the school year.
Encourage your child to talk with a trusted adult if they experience questions, teasing, or bullying related to their cleft or appearance.
Families can also find helpful educational and school resources through the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association and Children’s Craniofacial Association.
From all of us at the Spokane Cleft Team, we hope our patients have a wonderful school year filled with learning, friendships, confidence, and plenty of reasons to smile!
Have a great first day!
