Tips to Help Navigate Elementary School with Food Allergies

We don't want your child to feel different or be defined as "the kid with food allergies" at school. Here are a few tips that can ensure your child has a safe school year.

• Befriend the school nurse. Take your child to meet the school nurse before school begins so they can establish a relationship. Provide the nurse with your child's emergency medications and a list of what foods your child is allergic to, along with the action to be taken if the child were to accidentally eat that food. A Food Allergy Action Plan is available for download at http://bit.ly/alLobw . With the nurse you can identify important guidelines for your child's snack, lunch and class activities.


• Talk with your child's teacher. Request a conference with your child's teacher and provide them with basic information about your childs food allergies. It is important to leave additional copies of the infomation for substitutes.


• Send in reinforcements. There may be parties, science projects, and other celebrations that invariably include food. At the beginning of the school year, provide your child's teacher with an allergy-friendly snack box so your child can choose something from it during these special celebrations and not feel left out.


• Encourage extra-curricular activities. Don't shy away from birthday parties, play-dates, sports or scouts because of food allergies. These are all great oppportunities for social skill building and there should be no holding back if you do a little extra legwork and planning ahead.


• Volunteer. Volunteering in your child's classroom will allow for your input in class parties so you can help select safe foods. Attending class field trips will also ease your mind so you can oversee your child's food and medication needs rather than relying on chaperones.


• Say thanks! Nurses and teachers work hard throughout the year to ensure your child's safety, remember to show your thanks.

FAAN Food Allergy News 2011:20:6. Navigating Elementary School with Food Allergies. Pellicore K.