When it comes to school, every child begins to worry about whether the course material will be too challenging, if their teachers will be nice, or if they’ll make that sports team they’re trying out for.
However, for kids with food allergies, these concerns only add to their concerns over their food allergies. They’re wondering if everyone in their class knows not to bring peanut products, if the lunchroom staff knows they can’t have eggs, or if the teachers know that food treats can be life-threatening.
According to Food Allergy Research and Education, more than 15% of school-aged children with food allergies have had an allergic reaction at school. These reactions can range anywhere from mild to fatal, which is why allergy awareness in the classroom is essential.
The best way to help children with food allergies is to make teachers, parents, and other students aware of the dangers and how they can help be part of a solution.
The easiest route is to just keep all food out of the classroom. That way, no one has to worry or think about what’s allowed and what’s restricted.
If snacks aren’t taken out of the classrooms completely, it needs to be well-known to all students, teachers, and parents which foods are dangerous allergens. Those foods must be restricted from snacks, parties, or other activities.
It’s a wonderful gesture to bring treats and snacks into the classroom for parties and holidays, but that gesture can marginalize or be dangerous to some kids. Instead, try extra recess or celebrate with games and free time.
Inclusion and acceptance can go a long way in helping any child adapt. If everyone knows that there are just some foods that are dangerous for their classmates, understanding, and recognition can happen.
In addition to explaining to kids about food allergies, find activities, resources, videos, or testimonials to share with children in, and out of the classroom. If the ideas are delivered in a fun and inclusive manner, children are more likely to respond to that information.
Kids with food allergies will have their emergency plans and their parents will have discussed with staff and teachers what to do in the event of a reaction. To ensure everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and enjoy school, allergen awareness is critical. Remember, safety is a fundamental right of every child in every classroom.
To learn more about food allergies, take our food allergen training course.
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