Going to school with food allergies.

• Meet with school staff, including the school nurse, food service manager and teachers to let them know of your child’s allergy. o Start early – don’t wait until the school year starts! • Provide information, including a WRITTEN EMERGENCY TREATMENT PLAN from your child’s doctor about the allergy including: o How to recognize an allergic reaction, how to treat it, who to contact, and how to activate emergency services (e.g., 911). o Include your child’s picture. • Provide labeled medications and review expiration dates. • Discuss where medications are kept and who will give them. o Medication should be unlocked and easily accessible. • Review information about your child’s food allergy, including: o Safe and unsafe foods o Symptoms and treatment of an allergic reaction • Work with your school to create and review a plan that addresses ways to provide a safe environment for your child throughout the day. • Review with your child their responsibilities (age-appropriate) including: o No food sharing/trading or eating unsafe foods o Reporting any symptoms to an adult o Carrying/using medications o Hand washing with soap and water before and after meals/snacks is suggested. Hand sanitizers do not remove the allergen