For a parent of a child with food allergies foremost in their mind is protecting them, helping them to thrive and to have a happy childhood. No parent wants to see their child suffer, but for these children the allergies can go beyond suffering and become medical emergencies. It becomes essential for parents and other caretakers to work together to keep the child as healthy as possible in every environment they are in.

Most schools are equipped to deal with any manner of medical condition and this includes allergies. Nurses should be well versed in dealing with food allergies and the medical emergencies they create. They should know how to administer epinephrine and should be able to monitor your child while waiting for emergency medical personnel to arrive. Sadly not all schools have full time nurses so it then becomes important to ensure that someone in the school has training in CPR, can administer an EpiPen and either is trained in dealing with food allergy emergencies or is willing to learn.

Dealing with meals will depend a lot on the severity of your child’s allergy and how many foods he is allergic to, the more foods he is allergic to the harder it becomes for staff to be able to prepare food for your child without the risk of contamination. Many parents choose to simply prepare foods for their child at home, rather than to take that risk. Most schools should have separate tables for children with food allergies to keep their food from becoming cross contaminated. Do not assume that your school knows all this, while they are most likely well educated in caring for children with allergies, good communication is a top priority in helping them understand your child’s specific needs.

The final issues you will need to address with your child’s school will be for special cases such as when there are birthday treats or snacks or if your child’s class is going on a field trip. Many teachers may need a bit of education depending on their previous experience. Offer to bring treats to school for them to keep for your child in the event that the other children get treats. For field trips offer to attend the field trip with your child so that you will be able to attend to any emergencies that may occur with your child.

Making life as normal as possible for your child will help to ensure that your child has as happy and regular a childhood as possible.