SummaryThe effects of renal failure on children are outlined and current research findings relevant to the physical and psychological effects of the handicap are summarised. the application of a survey of attitudes within a paediatric renal unit are presented and the results discussed in relation to the learning difficulties arising from this condition.Among the points to arise strongly were, first, that the patients as a group have problems arising from their chronic illness which enforces repeated hospital admissions, often from an early age. Some problems may be circumvented by a programme of early intervention for the very young renal patient. Secondly, for the older pupils, there was a need for an education programme which centred on their social needs. Finally, a programme for the schools should be initiated by the staff of the renal unit to educate the teachers responsible for the renal patients and their peer group in the nature and effects of renal disease.