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KID'S ZONE!

Even though we have arthritis, we can still have FUN!
Many kids have JIA. You are not alone!
What is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)?
Having JIA means that parts of your body feels stiff and sore sometimes. You will probably feel it more in the morning when you wake up. You might also get a fever and pink rash, which usually goes away really quickly.
Why Do I Have Pain?
The pain you're feeling is caused by swelling in the places where your bones connect. You might feel sore in just one part of your body or in many different parts.
Can I Get Rid of JIA?
JIA is chronic, which means that there is no cure. But there are many ways that the pain can get better and sometimes go away, by staying active, eating healthy, and taking medication that your doctor gives you
Can I Do What Other Kids Do?
Listen to your body! You might feel like you get tired faster or like you need to do things a bit slower. That's ok! Most kids with JIA can do the same things as their friends, but should not push themselves too much.
Staying physically active and exercising are important ways to stay healthy, even when you have JIA. Some days it may be more difficult to exercise due to joint pain, and on those days do not push yourself too hard.
It is Important to Stay Active!
Ways to Stay Active
  • Join a group sport you are interested in
  • Set aside some time every day to get your heart pumping like biking, running, or dancing
  • Go to the park with your family or friends
  • Help out around the house or do yard work
  • Spend less time on the computer or playing video games
Kids with JIA that are Staying Active
Keep Track of Your Physical Activity
Athletes Who Have JIA
Kristy McPherson
A famous golfer who was diagnosed with JIA at age 11
Charcandrick West
A football player in the NFL who was diagnosed with JIA at age 14
Kristine Holzer
An Olympic speed skater who was diagnosed with JIA at age 13
It is Important to Eat Healthy Too!
Having JIA means that it is even more necessary to have a balanced and healthy diet. We should make sure to eat good foods (including the not-so-yummy vegetables) so that we grow up to be strong!
Remember to eat before and after you do physical activity. This helps us stay fueled up and energized.
Although it may be difficult to eat sometimes because our jaw hurts or we feel sick from medication, try to eat smaller meals more often. Stick to soft foods that are not crunchy or hard to chew, like oatmeal, bananas, soup, yoghurt and applesauce.
Click here to draw your own Healthy Plate
More Fun Activities for Kids that Have JIA
Printable Coloring Pages
JIA Word Search
Kid's Book About JIA
Click here for a printable version of the word search
Click here to read the book
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