Food Allergy Education Guidance Across the Lifespan

Food Allergy Education & Guidance Across the Lifespan Resources for educators, families, and individuals living with food allergy

Table of Contents Introduction

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Evidence-Based Approaches to Food Allergy Care

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Food Allergy Education in Early Childhood

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Food Allergy Education for Elementary Students

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Food Allergy Education for Middle School Students

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Food Allergy Education for High School Students

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College Life and Food Allergies

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Adult Food Allergy Resources

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Other Related Conditions

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Introduction The Center for Food Allergy and Asthma Research (CFAAR) at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Lurie Children’s Hospital aims to find answers and shape policies surrounding food allergy, asthma and other allergic conditions.

This guide contains CFAAR’s research informed resources from early childhood through adulthood in one location in hopes of increasing food allergy education and awareness.

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Evidence-Based Approaches to Food Allergy Care Research-backed interventions in prevention, treatment, and emergency response TREATMENT INTERVENTIONS Access our easy-to-read e-book highlighting the latest evidence-based approaches to food allergy management, including Xolair, Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT).

EARLY INTRODUCTION Best practices in early food introduction continue to evolve. Current guidelines recommend introducing allergens between 4–6 months of age.

Refer to this handout from CFAAR’s iREACH Study to learn more about introducing peanut safely and effectively.

EPINEPHRINE ACCESS & USE New epinephrine delivery devices are being developed. Current FDA approved devices include: Epi-pen, Auvi-Q, and Neffy. Dosing options may vary by individual’s weight and generic options are also available.

CFAAR’S PUBLICATIONS CFAAR is a leader in advancing the scientific understanding of childhood and adult food allergy in the United States. Browse our publications.

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Starting Safe: Food Allergy Education in Early Childhood Guidance for parents, caregivers, and early learning professionals to keep young children safe and included

This section provides necessary information, strategies and resources to address food allergies in early childhood spaces.

We want children to: STOP before they eat.

LOOK at the food.

ASK an adult if it’s ok.

GO only if the adult says so.

Children under 6 years old depend on adults to keep them safe and to be food allergy aware, prepared, and ready!

Scan or click here to access all Early Childhood Resources.

For Early Childhood Professionals Guidance for parents, caregivers, and early learning professionals to keep young children safe and included STOP. LOOK. ASK. GO. TRAINING Take this free online, on demand training available for professional development. The teacher videos contained in the training are also available for your use in English and Spanish.

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROFESSIONAL CHECKLIST Print this checklist to guide conversation with families when a child has a known food allergy.

FOOD ALLERGY AWARENESS TIP SHEETS Share these tip sheets with your parents and families. They were created in collaboration with the Illinois Early Learning Project and are available in 7 languages: English, Spanish, French, Polish, Korean, Chinese, Arabic.

STOP. LOOK. ASK. GO. SONG FOR CHILDREN Watch and sing this song when snacks or meals are being served. To reinforce this simple message, use hand signals to cue pre-verbal children and help keep them safe around food.

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For Parents and Caregivers

Guidance on allergy prevention, early introduction, safe feeding, and communicating with your child’s caregivers. Build confidence in supporting your child’s health and safety every day.

PARENT-TO-PARENT VIDEO Watch and share this 2 minute parent-to-parent video (in English and Spanish). Parents of children without food allergies might find it especially helpful!

STOP. LOOK. ASK. GO. TRAINING Take this free online, on demand training available for parents to stay current with all that an EC program has to consider. Use these resources to advocate for your child.

FAMILY RESOURCES Explore family-friendly tools like the STOP. LOOK. ASK. GO. song, a Food Allergy Passport for on-the-go care, an All-Ages Back-to-School Checklist, and a Peanut Introduction Guide, handout for babies.

PODCAST Listen to this 20 min interview from the Illinois Early Learning Project, where CFAAR’s Dr. Ruchi Gupta and Sarah Valaika discuss practical strategies for managing food allergies in young children.

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For Children Engaging, age-appropriate activities and visuals to help young children understand food allergies, recognize safe foods, and learn how to keep themselves and their friends safe.

STOP. LOOK. ASK. GO. SONG FOR CHILDREN Watch and sing along when snacks or meals are being served. To reinforce this simple message, use hand signals to cue pre-verbal children and help keep them safe around food.

PLAY THE GAME RED LIGHT, GREEN LIGHT Young children love this game. Add a yellow light and read this blog to find out why HERE!

ALLERGY FRIENDLY PLAYTIME RECIPES Children learn through exploration and using their senses. Use these allergy-friendly recipes free of the Top 9 allergens for safe and fun playtime.

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Empowering Young Learners: Food Allergy Education for Elementary Students This section provides resources to help children, parents, and educators learn about food allergies.

Our goal is to ensure that every child feels safe, included, and empowered to advocate for themselves and others — both inside and outside the classroom.

Children depend on adults to keep them safe and to be food allergy aware, prepared, and ready!

Scan or click here to access all Elementary Resources.

For Teachers Lesson plans, classroom activities, and communication tips to foster a safe and inclusive environment for students with food allergies.

TEACHER RESOURCES Help students learn to articulate the importance of food allergy awareness as they explore cross-contact scenarios and discuss ways to support classmates. Access the overview and teacher’s guide here.

SCHOOL PRESENTATION Use this slide deck to teach students about food allergies. View the presentation here and the presentation with notes here. Use this guided worksheet for increased student engagement.

STUDENT ACTIVITES Can you be an Allergist? Word Search , Answer Sheet Let’s Review! Crossword, Answer Sheet Coloring Book Check out IDPH’s fun food allergy activity sheets!

CLASSROOM BOOKS Looking for a food allergy book for your classroom library? The Class That Can: Food Allergies is a great resource!

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For Parents Guidance on partnering with schools, preparing care plans, and supporting your child’s confidence and safety throughout the school day.

STOP. LOOK. ASK. GO. TRAINING Take this free online, on demand training available for parents to stay current with all that an EC program has to consider. Use these resources to advocate for your child.

FAMILY RESOURCES Start the conversation at home with our Family Food Allergy Workbook.

Explore Allergy Force resources to empower your child to navigate daily routines safely. Sign up for the Mothers of Children Having Allergies (MOCHA) quarterly newsletter to stay connected with the food allergy community.

VIDEO RESOURCES Watch and share this 2 minute parent-to-parent video (in English and Spanish) Sing the STOP. LOOK. ASK. GO song before playdates, family gatherings, birthday parties, etc.

INFORMATION TO SHARE

Help others learn about food allergies by sharing this slide deck — available as a presentation or a version with notes for easy teaching.

Headed Back to School? Use this checklist to refresh your plan after summer and winter breaks.

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For Children Interactive tools and activities that teach kids about food allergies, self-advocacy, and how to help keep friends safe.

VIDEO RESOURCES Younger Kids Talk: Food Allergy: Watch young kids share what they know about food allergies—what happens in the body, what signs to look for, and how everyone can help keep friends safe.

ACTIVITIES Explore engaging food allergy activities including a “Can You Be an Allergist?” Word Search, “Let’s Review!” Crossword, and a Coloring Book from Allergy Force. Check out Comfort Kits, mind-body toys and playful instructions. Learn hands-on with Method Workbooks by The Child Life Therapist. Plus, check out additional activity sheets from IDPH for more hands-on learning and fun. (Answer keys included)

BOOKS TO READ AND SHARE Introduce children to food allergies through stories like Penny and the Peanut, The Disappearing Dot, The ImmuniForce: The Anaphylaxis Strike and The Class That Can: Food Allergies, which teach safety, inclusion, and understanding in a kid-friendly way.

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Middle School Matters: Food Allergy Safety and Self-Advocacy Middle school is a time of increasing independence, social exploration, and new routines. These resources help students, parents, and educators navigate food allergies safely while promoting inclusion, self-advocacy, and confidence in managing allergies both in and out of school.

Click here or scan to access all Middle School Resources.

For Teachers Tips, lesson ideas, and strategies to support students with food allergies in the classroom, cafeteria, and during extracurricular activities.

TEACHER RESOURCES Teach students to recognize mild and severe allergy symptoms and how to respond safely if someone is having a reaction. Includes direct access to the overview, teacher’s guide, pre-test, & guided worksheet for easy classroom use.

SCHOOL PRESENTATION Teach students about food allergies with this interactive slide deck.

Choose the presentation or the version with notes to guide learning in the classroom.

STUDENT ASSIGNMENT Encourage students to make a Public Service Announcement (PSA) highlighting why food allergies matter and how to keep friends safe. Click here to view the assignment.

CFAAR SCIENCE SLEUTHS PROGRAM A 3-month self-guided program providing students a STEM-based opportunity to become young researchers & explore the field of scientific research. Learn more here!

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For Parents Guidance on communicating with schools, supporting self-advocacy, and keeping students safe as they gain independence.

INFORMATION TO SHARE Help others learn about food allergies by sharing this slide deck — available as a presentation or a version with notes for easy teaching.

FAMILY RESOURCES Explore Allergy Force resources to empower your child to navigate daily routines safely. Sign up for the Mothers of Children Having Allergies (MOCHA) quarterly newsletter to stay connected with the food allergy community.

CFAAR SCIENCE SLEUTHS PROGRAM A 3-month self-guided program providing students a STEM-based opportunity to become young researchers & explore the field of scientific research. Learn more here!

STAY INFORMED Explore CFAAR’s collection of videos and webinars covering life with food allergies and other allergic conditions, including seasonal topics like Fall, Winter, Halloween, and anaphylaxis. Stay up to date by joining CFAAR’s newsletter for the latest research, resources, and news. Follow us on social media!

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For Students Interactive tools and activities that teach preteens about food allergies, self-advocacy, and how to help keep friends safe.

VIDEO RESOURCES Food Allergy Bullying: It's Not a Joke PSA: FARE's "It's Not a Joke" Campaign can help you learn more about food allergies and how you can prevent food allergy bullying.

ACTIVITIES Explore engaging food allergy activities including a “Can You Be an Allergist?”

Word Search, “Let’s Review!” Crossword, and a Coloring Book from Allergy Force. Plus, check out additional activity sheets from IDPH for more handson learning and fun. (Answer keys included)

CFAAR SCIENCE SLEUTHS PROGRAM A 3-month self-guided program providing students a STEM-based opportunity to become young researchers & explore the field of scientific research. Learn more here!

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Navigating Food Allergies in High School High school is a time of greater independence, social opportunities, and complex routines. These resources help students, parents, and educators navigate food allergies safely while promoting selfadvocacy, confidence, and inclusion at school, during activities, and in everyday life.

Click here or scan to access all High School Resources.

For Teachers Lesson plans, communication strategies, and safety protocols to support students with food allergies in classrooms, cafeterias, and extracurricular activities.

HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER RESOURCES Teach students to recognize mild and severe allergy symptoms and how to respond safely if someone is having a reaction. Includes direct access to the overview, teacher’s guide, pre-test, & guided worksheet for easy classroom use.

PRESENTATION Use this slide deck to teach high school students about food allergies.

Access the presentation or the version with speaker notes for easy classroom use.

STUDENT ASSIGNMENT Have students evaluate food allergy dining and meal options and reflect on their experience. Access the assignment here.

NOMINATE A STUDENT CFAAR Ambassadors Program A weeklong immersive summer experience for high schoolers who are curious about public health, healthcare, and leadership. Scholarships available.

CFAAR Science Sleuths Program A 3-month self-guided program providing students a STEM-based opportunity to become young researchers & explore the field of scientific research.

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For Parents Guidance on supporting teen independence, managing food allergies outside the home, and partnering with schools.

INFORMATION TO SHARE

Help others learn about food allergies by sharing this slide deck — available as a presentation or a version with notes for easy teaching.

FAMILY RESOURCES Explore Allergy Force resources to empower your child to navigate daily routines safely. Sign up for the Mothers of Children Having Allergies (MOCHA) quarterly newsletter to stay connected with the food allergy community.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR HIGH SCHOOLERS Would your child be interested in a weeklong immersive summer experience for high schoolers? Are they curious about public health, healthcare, and leadership?

Encourage them to apply for the CFAAR Ambassadors Program!

Would your child be interested in becoming a young researcher & exploring the field of scientific research? Encourage them to apply for the CFAAR Science Sleuths Program!

STAY INFORMED Explore CFAAR’s collection of videos and webinars covering life with food allergies and other allergic conditions, including seasonal topics like Fall, Winter, Halloween, and anaphylaxis. Stay up to date by joining CFAAR’s newsletter for the latest research, resources, and news. Follow us on social media!

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For Students Practical tips, peer-focused tools, and resources that help high schoolers understand their allergies, advocate for themselves, and help others stay safe.

VIDEO RESOURCES High School Student Talk: A video created by kids with food allergy to improve peer food allergy education and management.

Food Allergy Bullying- It's Not a Joke Public Service Announcement: FARE's "It's Not a Joke" Campaign can help you learn more about food allergies and how you can prevent food allergy bullying.

CFAAR AMBASSADORS PROGRAM Want a weeklong summer experience exploring public health, healthcare, and leadership? Apply for the CFAAR Ambassadors Program and dive into food allergy research, advocacy, and mentorship.

CFAAR SCIENCE SLEUTHS PROGRAM Interested in becoming a young researcher & exploring the field of scientific research? Apply for the CFAAR Science Sleuths Program!

PREPARING FOR COLLEGE Are you wondering how you will navigate food allergies in college? CFAAR has a great toolkit to help you! See the College section of this guide.

(Refer to page 22)

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Thriving on Your Own: Navigating College Life and Food Allergies Starting college means new freedoms—and new responsibilities. These resources help students manage food allergies confidently, educate friends and roommates, and prepare for emergencies while embracing everything college life has to offer.

Click here or scan to access all College Resources.

For Students These resources help students manage their food allergy with greater independence and confidence while embracing everything college life has to offer.

NAVIGATING INDEPENDENCE Starting college means new freedoms—and new responsibilities. These resources intend to empower students with dietary restrictions and equip new friends with the knowledge and tools they need to offer support and effectively respond in an emergency. Access the overview here.

FOOD ALLERGY TOOLKITS Use the Food Allergy and Special Diets Toolkit to help you navigate the transition from high school to college. Get practical tips for campus dining, communicating with food service staff, and building a personalized allergy plan—with guidance on nutrition, emergency preparedness, and selfadvocacy. Universities can also customize this toolkit template to support their students’ needs.

VIDEO RESOURCES

Watch stories and gain advice from college students living with food allergies.

These short videos explore real-life experiences in dining halls, dorms, and social settings, offering insight and encouragement for students starting their own college journey.

CFAAR College Video

GET INVOLVED

Start a Food Allergy Club: Use this CAFAE Club Flyer to launch a chapter and raise awareness in your community.

Explore Career Paths: Interested in public health, research, or medicine?

Apply for the CFAAR Scholars Summer Internship Program for hands-on experience.

Stay Connected: Join CFAAR’s newsletter and follow us on Instagram to keep up with the latest opportunities and events.

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Pivot with Poise: Adult Food Allergy Resources Find tools, tips, and community support to help manage food allergies safely and confidently in everyday life.

Click here or scan to access all Adult Resources.

For Adults Whether you’ve had food allergies your whole life or were recently diagnosed, these resources help you navigate daily life safely and advocate for yourself with confidence—at home, at work, and beyond.

FOOD ALLERGY 101 Refresh your knowledge on the basics of food allergies, including recognizing reactions, emergency preparedness, and prevention strategies. Perfect for adults newly diagnosed or looking to stay up to date. Start here for the basics.

TRAVEL AND RESTAURANTS Practical tips for dining out safely and traveling with food allergies, from reading menus and communicating with staff to preparing for trips and social events. Click here.

VIDEO AND COMMUNITY RESOURCES Access videos, webinars, and community tools to learn from experts and peers about managing food allergies, staying informed, and connecting with supportive networks. In need of food assistance? Click here.

FOLLOW OUR RESEARCH Stay up to date on CFAAR’s latest studies, publications, and breakthroughs in food allergy prevention, management, and policy on our website and by following us on Instagram. Sign up for our newsletter to remain connected to the research community.

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Other Related Conditions Many people with food allergies may also experience related conditions such as asthma, eczema, eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), or FPIES. This section provides resources to help individuals, families, and caregivers understand these conditions, recognize symptoms, and manage care effectively.

Click here or scan to access all Related Conditions Resources.

Other Related Conditions ASTHMA Learn common triggers, prevention strategies, and emergency preparedness to reduce risk and improve daily management. Create a Visual Asthma Action Plan to help healthcare providers and families develop personalized, picture-based, interactive plans of care.

Resources from Northwestern.

ECZEMA Resources for understanding triggers, treatments, and how to support skin health alongside food allergy management. Experts discuss Eczema during the CFAAR webinar: CFAAR Treatment Series: Eczema and Skin Conditions Panel. Resources from Northwestern.

CELIAC DISEASE Resources from University of Chicago & Northwestern Medi to understand gluten intolerance, identify symptoms, and manage a strict gluten-free diet safely.

EOSINOPHILIC ESOPHAGITIS (EOE) Educational materials on recognizing symptoms, treatment options, and strategies to manage EoE in daily life.

Experts discuss EoE during the CFAAR webinar: EoE-Everything you need to Know Experts discuss EoE during the CFAAR webinar: Chicagoland Food Allergy & EoE Treatment Options Resources from Northwestern.

FOOD PROTEIN-INDUCED ENTEROCOLITIS SYNDROME (FPIES) Guidance for identifying triggers, managing reactions, and navigating care plans for children and adults with FPIES. Read more here

ALPHA-GAL SYNDROME (AGS) Educational materials on tick bite–induced red meat allergy, symptoms, and strategies to avoid triggers and manage reactions. Read more here. Resources from Northwestern.

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Stay In Touch

Ruchi Gupta, MD, MPH

Founding Director Center for Food Allergy & Asthma Research

Sai Nimmagadda, MD

Samantha Sansweet, MPH

Chief Allergist Center for Food Allergy & Asthma Research

Sarah Valaika, MS

Former Director of Education & Student Programs

Early Childhood Educator

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Latest Edition: March 2026