As the summer winds down, parents everywhere are starting to prepare for that exciting back-to-school hustle. But for parents of kids with food allergies, it’s also a season filled with extra caution and planning.
At Allergy & ENT Associates, we know how important it is to ensure that your child transitions back to school safely. Here’s our guide to making that transition as smooth as possible.
Start with a Conversation
Before the school year kicks off, schedule meetings with your child’s teachers, school nurse and administrative staff. Encourage inclusive behavior and a group conversation about what severe allergies are and how to better understand their classmates and students’ needs. Give educators and administrators a detailed action plan that includes:
- A list of your child’s food allergies
- Signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction
- Steps to take in case of an emergency
- Contact information for you and your child’s allergist
Pack Allergy-Safe Lunches
Packing a lunch for your child ensures that you have full control over what they eat. Opt for meals that are both nutritious and free from allergens. There are options available that are allergy-friendly to kids with a variety of allergies. Be sure to read labels, and choose the foods that fit your child’s specific needs.
Educate Your Child
Empowering your child with knowledge about their allergies is important. Teach them to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction and what to do if they experience one. Encourage them to speak up and tell an adult immediately if they’re not feeling well. Role playing different scenarios at home can help ensure your child feels confident advocating for themselves in these situations.
Stay Connected
Regularly check in with your child’s teachers and the school nurse to ensure that your child’s food allergy management plan is being followed throughout the school year. Always provide updates or additional information if there are changes to your child’s condition or treatment.
Teach Your Child to Read Labels
Teaching your child to read food labels can be a game-changer. Start with simple steps like looking for bolded allergen warnings on packaging and recognizing common ingredients they need to avoid. This skill will not only help them make safer choices at school but also build their independence and confidence in managing their allergies.
Be Prepared for Field Trips
Field trips can be a source of anxiety for parents of kids with food allergies. Ensure that your child’s emergency action plan is with the teachers and chaperones in advance. Pack safe snacks and meals for your child, and remind them not to share food with the other children in their class. It’s also a good idea to provide a medical kit that includes an EpiPen, antihistamines and detailed instructions for their use.
Advocate for Allergy Awareness
Get involved in your school community to promote food allergy awareness. This could be through organizing allergy education workshops, volunteering to speak at parent-teacher meetings or providing resources to help other families understand the importance of allergy safety.
As always, Allergy & ENT Associates is here to support you and your family with managing and treating food allergies. Schedule a consultation with an allergist today to develop a custom treatment plan to ensure a smooth transition back to school!
