More than 2 million school aged children in the United States have life-threatening food allergies, according to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network. Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, children with potentially lethal allergies are entitled to reasonable accommodations that will allow them to participate in school to the greatest extent possible. A safe and successful educational experience for these children depends on the participation and cooperation of families, teachers and school administrators.
Guidelines for Parents
Doctors and school personnel alike recommend that parents provide all their child's lunches, snacks and treats. You know better than anyone what foods are safe for your child, and bringing safe foods from home eliminates the possibility of accidentally being served an item containing an allergen by school staff. Maintain regular contact with physicians and school personnel. Medical needs may change as your child ages, so communicate changes in treatment protocol or prescriptions to the necessary school officials. Provide medications and up-to-date emergency contact information.
Guidelines for Students
Even the youngest students can help keep themselves safe while at school. For example, they can learn how to tell others about their allergies, identify possible allergens and protect themselves at mealtimes by washing their hands thoroughly and not sharing food with peers. Students of all ages should also know the warning signs of an allergic reaction and who to tell if they experience those symptoms. In case a student falls unconscious or is otherwise unable to speak, they should also always wear special jewelry engraved with their medical information. As students get older, they can begin to take a more active role in their own health care by learning to inspect food labels and self-administer medication.
Guidelines for Teachers
As the person who has the most daily contact with students, the teacher plays a main role in caring for students with severe allergies. Be aware of a student's allergies, symptoms of an allergic reaction and emergency protocols. Become trained in how to administer emergency medication, including injections. Inform substitute teachers about all necessary information regarding the care of students with allergies. Although it is impossible to guarantee a completely allergen-free environment, make your classroom a food-free area. Find safe alternatives to using food as a reward or teaching tool. In the case of special situations such as parties, field trips or classes such as home economics in which food is a major part of the curriculum, consult parents for a plan that will allow the allergic student to participate as fully as possible without jeopardizing his health.
Guidelines for Administrators
If you're a school principal or administrator, ensure that school staff members attend allergy education sessions. Include support staff, such as bus drivers or coaches, who might not normally be included in staff training but have daily contact with students. Focus on cafeteria procedures, providing "allergy-aware" tables where certain foods are banned. Cafeteria staff should be carefully trained and made aware of who is allowed to sit at these tables, what foods are not allowed, and how to properly clean and disinfect the lunchroom after mealtimes. Having separate tables also may cause concern that children with allergies will be singled out and teased by their peers. Prevent this by providing allergy and anti-bullying education. Teach students how to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction, potentially empowering them to save a classmate's life. Do your part to cut down on bullying by making sure inappropriate behavior is dealt with immediately.
References
- Spokane Public Schools: Guidelines for Managing Life Threatening Food Allergies in Schools
- Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network: School Guidelines
- Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services: Guidelines for Allergy Prevention and Response
- Howard County Public Schools: Guidelines for the Management of Students With Severe Food Allergies
