Food allergies in children require special planning even before the first day of school.
You’ll need to make a plan and talk to several people at your child’s school. This can be time-consuming and frustrating, but it’s necessary to ensure a safe year.
About 3 percent of kids have food allergies, according to The Methodist Hospital. Although most of these allergies go away as the child gets older, some may linger.
What are kids allergic to?
The most-common food allergies in children are to:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Peanuts
Wheat, soy and tree nuts (such as walnuts and almonds) also often cause allergic reactions.
Make a plan
Before your child starts school, you need to:
- Get a letter from your child’s doctor that outlines the allergies
- Find out if your school has a policy on food allergies
- Meet with the school principal
- Meet with the school nurse to develop an Individualized Health Care Plan (IHP)
The IHP spells out what the school team will do to:
- Reduce your child’s risk of allergy exposure
- Recognize symptoms of an allergic reaction
- Treat your child when necessary
It may include:
- List of the child’s allergies and symptoms
- Emergency treatment plans and list of medications
- What staff members should do if a reaction occurs
- Parent, child, nurse and other school staff responsibilities
- Changes in the classroom, cafeteria, etc.
Have a safe year
In some cases, if your child’s needs are complex or there is resistance from the school, a Section 504 Plan may be needed. The 504 Plan is part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a federal law that stops schools from excluding or discriminating against students with disabilities.
If you haven’t already, join a group for parents of children with allergies. It really helps to talk to someone who has been there, and you can learn tips for what really works at school.
Sources: The Methodist Hospital, Kids With Food Allergies
Tell us: Does your child have a food allergy? Is the school cooperative?
