As a parent, it can be concerning to send your child off to school knowing they have allergies. However, with proper management and communication with the school, you can feel confident that your child will be safe and well taken care of while at school. In this guide, we will discuss how parents can effectively manage their children’s allergies while they are in school.
Common Allergies in Children
Before we dive into managing allergies, we must know the common allergens that affect children. These include:
- Food allergies such as peanuts, fish, sesame, dairy, and gluten
- Environmental allergies like pollen, dust mites, and animal dander
- Insect sting allergies from bees, wasps, and fire ants
- Latex allergy from rubber products
Before School Starts: Ensuring Your Child’s SafetyBefore the school year begins, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to ensure that your child will be safe while at school. These steps may include updating medication and forms and creating an emergency care plan.
Updating Medication and Forms
It is crucial to keep all medication forms up to date before the start of the school year. This includes updating any changes in your child’s medication, dosage, and treatment plan. Providing the school with all necessary medicines and supplies is also essential. For food allergies, include a doctor’s note of your child’s allergies so the school has a copy to reference.
Creating an Emergency Care Plan
You and your child’s doctor should create an emergency care plan to ensure they receive appropriate medical attention in case of an allergic reaction. This plan should include information such as allergy triggers, symptoms of an allergic reaction, and steps to take in an emergency. Ensure you provide the school with a copy of the emergency care plan and review it with your child’s teacher and other staff members.
Educate Your Child on Allergy Safety and Treatment
If your child has a food allergy or needs to manage anaphylaxis, educate them on their allergy, the symptoms of a reaction, and how to communicate it to others. Children need to know what foods they are allergic to, how to read food labels, not to share food with others or accept food they are not sure is safe, and what steps they need to take in case of an allergic reaction. This will empower your child and help them feel more confident managing their allergies.
Other types of allergies, such as environmental, latex, and insect, also need to be managed by your child in some ways. For example, if they are allergic to dogs or cats, they should avoid petting the animal and wash their hand immediately if they do. Your child should know their triggers and work with school staff to prevent them.
Check to See If your Child Can Carry Their Medications
Depending on your child’s age and maturity, they may be able to carry and administer their medication. This can help empower them and give them a sense of responsibility for managing their allergies. However, check with the school’s policy on self-administration of medication before allowing your child to do so.
During the School Year: Communication is Key
Communication with the school is crucial throughout the school year when managing your child’s allergies. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
Provide the School with Your Child’s Allergy Management Supplies
When school begins, bring their medication permission forms, epinephrine auto-injector, and emergency care plan to the school to prevent any accidents. With signed and updated medication and health forms, a current emergency care plan, and fresh medication, the school will have what it needs to manage your child’s allergies.
Check-In on Your Child
As a parent, checking in with your child daily to see how they are feeling is essential. This can help identify any difficulties or reactions they may be experiencing due to their allergy.
Keep the School Updated
It is vital to inform the school of changes in your child’s treatment plan or medication. This can help ensure the school is equipped to handle emergencies and adequately care for your child.
Keep Track of Medication Expiration Dates
Keep track of when your child’s medication will expire and provide the school with new medicines as needed. It is also essential to check in with the school periodically to ensure they have an adequate supply of your child’s medication.
Report Allergic Reactions
If your child experiences an allergic reaction while at school, it is essential to report it to the school immediately. This will allow for prompt medical attention for your child and help the school better understand and manage their allergies in the future.
Encourage Your Child to be Involved in School Activities
Encouraging your child to be involved in school activities, even if they have allergies, is crucial. By educating them on managing their allergies and advocating for themselves, they can participate in activities safely. If they feel left out due to their allergen, notify the school so they can help you navigate the issue and ensure your child feels included.
When The School Year Ends: Lay the Groundwork for a Succesful Year
It’s time to prepare for the following year when the school year ends. To help the next year go smoothly, you should:
Pick up All Unused Medication and Supplies
At the end of the school year, pick up any unused medication and supplies from the school. This will help prevent any mix-ups or accidents over the summer.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Child’s Doctor
Before the next school year begins, schedule a visit with your child’s doctor to discuss any changes in treatment plans or medications. This will ensure that the school has updated information and can provide proper care for your child.
Speak with School Staff on How the Year Went
It can be helpful to talk with school staff about how the year went managing your child’s allergies. This can help identify any areas for improvement and ensure your child’s needs are met.
Get the Forms and Health Care Plans for Next Year
Before the end of the school year, make sure to obtain any necessary forms and health care plans for the following year. This will ensure that you have everything in order before the start of the new school year.
Communicate with Next Year’s Teacher
Make sure to communicate with your child’s teacher about their allergies for the upcoming year. This will help them be prepared and assist your child in managing their allergies while at school.
Work with Allergy & Clinical Immunology Associates for a Great School Year!
Managing your child’s allergies at school can be a team effort between you, the school, and your child. By staying informed and communicating effectively, you can help ensure your child stays safe and healthy at school. Work closely with an allergy specialist for further guidance on managing your child’s allergies.
We can create a plan that works best for your child and their specific allergies. Remember, your child can thrive at school without worrying about allergies with proper management. So, let’s work together to make this school year a great one! Contact us today to schedule an appointment!