Back to school can be a very scary time for parents of kids with food allergies. When I first sent my son off to Kindergarten, I worried for weeks on end. It took awhile but because I developed such an open relationship with the staff, I soon felt peace about it.
I thought I would share with you a few things I’ve learned a long the way. First, meet with the teacher BEFORE school starts. Lay those ground rules and make sure everyone understands what needs to be done and how your child’s food allergies must be handled.
Second, make a book about it. Ok, more like a folder. I print off all of my son’s emergency contact information along with his allergens and what to do in case of an emergency as in, step by step instructions. Then, I place it in a well labeled paper folder. This is very helpful especially if you have a substitute teacher.
Third, make sure the classroom (not just the front office) is well stocked with safe snacks, epi-pens, contact information, etc. I leave snacks for the teacher in case they celebrate anything special and my son needs a treat. I also leave wipes for the kids so they can wipe their hands after treats or lunch. Remember, hand sanitizer does not remove allergens it only removes germs.
Preparation can go a long way. Of course, it’s always a good thing to talk to your child too. I instruct my son to let his teacher know of any itching, runny nose, etc. He’s become better at telling them especially now that he has entered the ‘let me go to the office because I’m sick and then I get to go home’ phase.
I hope that helps put some fears to rest. Again, open communication is key. Make sure the teacher knows that he/she can contact you at any time and let them know you prefer that too! I would rather a teacher call me everyday than not at all.
Happy back to school!
Be sure to check out our Food Allergen information including the Substitution List.
I am still a few years away from sending my daughter to school and I am worried about her sitting in the cafeteria at lunch and kids possibly sharing food. Do you ever wonder about that? I am just not sure a 6 year old would totally understand “Don’t eat anything anyone gives you unless Mommy put it in your lunchbox”.
Well, my six year old understood that very well but mostly because he’s been through enough hospital trips to know what the consequences are. We talked about it a lot before he went to school, he knew without a doubt that he could not share food. His teachers not only knew that as well but so did the other students.
In our particular school, it is discussed openly. There are many allergy kids in the school and we try to focus on educating everyone including the students just to keep them all safe. Again, I think the most important thing is to be very open with the school and the teachers. Tell them your desires, ask that the students be made aware and ask that your child be included in activities.
We provide alternatives for everything whether it’s a craft project or a birthday treat so my son is never left out. Not only do the students know but the parents as well. Honestly, I just think education on the matter is the most important thing you can do.
Because they’re all aware, not only do the teachers watch closely at lunchtime but the students do too.
-Sarah