As millions of children start a new school year, many parents with food-allergic children worry about their children’s safety at school. Here are some tips to make the transition easier.
- Inquire if the school has a policy regarding food allergies. Most schools are proactive and have worked with food allergic families to develop a safe, yet inclusive, environment. It is always helpful to request a written copy so that it may be reviewed throughout the school year. If your child’s school does not have such a policy in place, this is a great opportunity for education. Enlist your allergist’s help in developing such a program for your child’s school
- Discuss how staff, volunteers, parents, and even peers will be taught, in an age-appropriate manner, how to recognize symptoms of an allergic reaction and how to minimize possible triggers. It is important to inform other parents, via email or letter, that they should bring only safe snacks and treats to school.
- Determine the school’s policy regarding who will be administering emergency medication. It is important to establish if this person(s) will be at the school for the entire day. Important questions to consider: Who is able to step in when this person is away and where is the medication kept?
- Inquire whether or not school personnel has received food allergy training. If the instruction has not been provided or was scant, this is another opportunity to educate and share your knowledge of food allergy safety.
- If your child plans to eat the school lunch, be sure the school offers safe menu options for your child. It is often helpful to store a box of safe snacks in the classroom when the food’s safety is unknown.
- Establish what will happen when food is consumed in the classroom and how the eating surfaces will be cleaned afterward? Hot water and soap is the best option for removing potential allergens from surfaces. An important question to ask is if there are after school events hosted in your child’s classroom? Food residues can be left in the classroom and can potentially cause an allergic reaction.
- Provide the school with a copy of your child’s anaphylaxis action plan from his or her allergist. Double-check the expiration date of the medications provided.
- Request a time to speak with your child’s teacher. Share information and answer any questions the teacher may have. This is a great opportunity to start the year off in a safe and friendly manner.
The Specialists of Advanced Allergy & Asthma Care provide patients with the highest level of care leading to improvement in the quality of life. We specialize in the treatment of asthma, nasal allergies, eye allergies, sinus infections, as well as food and skin allergies. Additionally, we treat insect stings and medication allergies. We have locations throughout Fairfield County, CT. Visit us in any of our offices in Danbury, New Milford, Norwalk, and Ridgefield.