A new school or classroom can be very exciting for your child, but a food allergy may make parents worry about their health and safety in the classroom and the cafeteria. The physicians at AGC Pediatrics in Calhoun and Cartersville, Georgia encourage you to take charge and manage your child’s food allergy while they are at school with these easy tips.
Sending Your Child to School with Food Allergies
Sending Your Child to School with Food Allergies
A new school or classroom can be very exciting for your child, but a food allergy may make parents worry about their health and safety in the classroom and the cafeteria. The physicians at AGC Pediatrics in Calhoun and Cartersville, Georgia encourage you to take charge and manage your child’s food allergy while they are at school with these easy tips.
Work as a Team
Get in touch with your child’s teachers, school nurses, bus drivers, and after school activity leaders to introduce yourself and discuss the details about your child’s food allergy. These leaders will be your teammates in keeping your child happy and safe while they are at school, so communication is important.
Make sure they have a list of the foods that your child is allergic to, explain how their allergic reactions present themselves, and have detailed instructions about medication or help that needs to be given if they think your child may be having an allergic reaction.
Get Involved
Talk to teachers and administrators about the school’s food allergy procedures and don’t be afraid to speak up if you have concerns. Many schools may have a special lunch table for students with food allergies or policies in place about whether candy or snacks can be given to students as rewards. If these policies are not already in place, you can request them.
Food allergies are becoming more common in schools, so your child is not alone. Your involvement can help make the school a safer place for everyone.
Be Prepared
Make sure to always have an updated calendar that lists field trips, parties, and any other special event that may involve food. You can send a special treat for your child to enjoy and still get to be a part of the fun with his classmates.
It’s also a good idea to supply your child’s homeroom teacher with some non-perishable treats and drinks they can give your child if a classmate’s mom sends surprise cupcakes for the class. That way they never feel left out, no matter what comes up.
Empower Your Child
Depending on your child’s age, you can teach them to take control of their food allergy and reduce their risk of having an allergic reaction. For young children, this should include teaching them to never share food given to them by their friends or classmates.
As children grow and learn, they can help remind adults and friends about their allergy and read ingredient labels on packaged food. This helps them develop responsibility and a sense of confidence as their own advocate.
Contact AGC Pediatrics to Help Manage Your Child’s Allergies
If you think your child may be developing a food allergy or if you need help managing an existing allergy, make an appointment with one of our expert pediatricians. We offer non-invasive allergy testing methods and expert advice on food allergy treatment and care. Call (706) 625-5900 or fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment.
