How To Manage Your Child’s Allergies at SchoolAs the school year begins, it’s time to start preparing your child (and yourself) for school. This includes getting back on healthy sleep schedules and returning their minds to school projects and homework. Another way to prepare your child for the school year is to remind the nurse’s office of your child’s allergies.

The connection between you and your child’s school is important to ensure your child is handling their allergies and staying away from potential triggers. Keep reading to learn how to manage your child’s allergies at school.

Have a Discussion With the School Nurse

Before the school year begins, or within the first two weeks of school, you should meet with the school nurse to discuss your child’s allergies. By working with the school nurse, the school can create an allergy-friendly environment for your child. The nurse will write these accommodations in the school plans.

During the meeting, you and the nurse should discuss:

  • Your child’s allergies
  • Any updates on the allergies
  • Accommodations for your child in the classroom or cafeteria
  • Any medications or treatments they need in case of a reaction
  • Provide written permission to call your child’s pediatrician for more information

Talk to Your Child’s Teacher

You should also schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher. You and the teacher should have a collaborative relationship to ensure your child is safe. During the meeting, scope out the classroom for potential triggers and inform the teacher of your child’s allergies and triggers.

During the meeting, you should ask:

  • Will there be a class pet?
  • Are the classrooms dusted regularly?
  • Are the snacks in the classroom allergy-friendly?
  • Does the staff check the building for mold?

Refresh Your Child’s Memory of Their Allergy

You should refresh your child’s memory about their allergy to help manage their allergies at school. It’s important that they have age-appropriate self-management skills to help themselves stay healthy and safe.

When refreshing your child on their safety and health precautions, remind them of how they can manage their allergies and what they should avoid. Remind your child of how serious it is to treat their allergies. You should also provide this list to your child’s teacher and school nurse so that they know that your child is aware of what they’re supposed to do.

Environmental Allergies

  • Tell a grown-up if you’re experiencing a reaction
  • Avoid touching class pets
  • Ask to go to the nurse if you’re feeling ill
  • Know your triggers and take treatments when necessary

Food Allergies

  • Avoid sharing food
  • Wash hands before and after eating
  • Don’t eat offered foods unless you know it’s 100 percent safe
  • Tell a grown-up if you’re experiencing a reaction

Have a successful school year filled with fun and success by avoiding preventable allergic reactions. Make sure your child is safe during the school year and help manage their allergies at school. Prevent allergic reactions by providing the school’s staff with medical information and treatments.