Eczema Sara Tomlinson EEC 4731 Spring 2012

Overview Eczema is a inflammatory skin condition which causes the skin to become inflamed of irritated. Eczema affects percent of children. There are many different types of eczema. The most common is atopic eczema ▫Which can result in an inherited tendency for hay fever or asthma later in life.

Signs and Symptoms Eczema is caused by an abnormal and overactive response by the immune system. First symptoms occur in infants and children younger than five. Eczema looks much like a rash and it tends to be itchy. Red patches of irritated skin develop on the infant/child’s cheeks, forehead, scalp, neck.

Signs and Symptoms (cont.) Older children may develop dry itchy spots behind the knees, elbows and wrists. Scratching can result in open sores that can become infected. Certain irritants can trigger an eczema flare-up including: weather changes, contact with rough surfaces, contact with cleaning substances, stress, being sick, and environmental allergens. Eczema often improves or disappears between the ages of five to fifteen, in 50 percent of the children.

Management of Condition Eczema is not curable but can be controlled by avoiding irritants, medical treatments, and informing children. It is very important to let children know what is happening as well as reminding children not to scratch. When weather changes children should be well dressed to prevent them from severe flare-ups. Topical treatments can help with the itch and reduce the redness.

Teaching Modifications Children with eczema may not be focused on learning because they are distracted by the itching. It is important for the teacher to have hand on activities such as: manipulative materials, block play, and book time. This will allow children to use there hands to play so there is a less chance for scratching. Also by having activities to distract the children from the discomfort of the patches,could be: games, active, pretend, and exploratory play.

Teaching Modifications (cont.) Some teachers may need to administer medical creams throughout the school day. Also by providing a stress-free learning environment would benefit the child since stress can cause a flare-up. Because eczema looks like a rash it would be important to inform parents and students that eczema is not contagious.

Addressing This Issue It is important for an early childhood professional to address this issue because eczema is a health issue that can be irritating for children who suffer from it. As professionals it is critical for us to notice abnormalities in children we are working with to protect them and help with health issues that arise. As an early childhood professional I would inform the parents of the abnormal rashes on a child’s skin and provide information and resources to help.

References Marotz, Lynn. Health, Safety, and Nutrition for the Young Child. Seventh Edition, Delmar Cengage Learning WebMD. Skin Conditions and Eczema Accessed via web: problems-and-treatments/eczema/atopic- dermatitis-eczema