Our Spot, a new resource launched by The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF),  provides resources for kids and teens living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The program includes a website and welcome kit with age-appropriate information and resources to help support the needs of youth living with psoriatic disease--from toddlers to teens, and their parents and caregivers too. An estimated 20,000 youths are diagnosed with psoriatic disease every year in the US.

“Our Spot was developed specifically to address the unique needs of youth living with psoriatic disease,” said Jaime Lyn Moy, youth services committee chair, National Psoriasis Foundation.

“Psoriatic disease can be overwhelming and isolating. We want to provide youth and their families a supportive environment where they can connect with others who know exactly what they are experiencing and learn ways to successfully manage their disease.”

Featuring stories from kids, teens and parents about what it means to live with psoriatic disease, the Our Spot website also offers communication tips for both youth and parents in addressing

different types of topics--from knowing how to talk with family and friends about psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, to addressing bullying and relationships. Our Spot also offers educational materials to help students and school staff understand psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. There is also an opportunity for parents to connect with other parents raising a child with psoriatic disease

through the NPF One to One program.

A welcome kit for newly diagnosed youth—the Our Spot Welcome kit—offera age-appropriate materials for kids age 12 and under, and specific information for teens. Kits include materials about being diagnosed with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, a parents’ guide, recipes and snack tips, a symptom tracker journal, a one-year subscription to the NPF Psoriasis Advance magazine, and other items for kids and teens.