Cherie Gough
10 Steps to an
Allergy-Safe School Year For parents of children with food allergies, starting a new school year can seem daunting. As the mom of a daughter with celiac disease, I know how overwhelming food allergies seem at times. To ensure a safe, positive school year that meets the needs of a food allergic child, follow these tips from moms and experts who’ve been there.
Communicate Early Julie Bradley, Carlsbad resident and secretary of National Celiac Association San Diego advises, “The best time to communicate with teachers is before the school year begins or during the first week of school, before foodoriented celebration norms are established for the year.”
22 • SanDiegofamily.com • September 2019
Build a Team A team invested in supporting your child includes teachers, coaches and the school nurse. Tiffany Hinton, mom of three daughters with celiac disease and several food allergies, and founder of GF Mom Certified, meets with all teachers and the nurse at the beginning of each school year. She suggests supplying the nurse with necessary items such as EpiPens and allergy medication.
Do Your Research Newly diagnosed? Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) provides helpful resources to support families: www.foodallergy.org/life-with-food-allergies/managing-lifesmilestones/at-school.
Put Requests in Writing I write a letter every year that is shared with the teacher, school nurse, substitutes and all extracurricular staff : PE, art and music teachers. By providing information in writing, I ensure important details about my child’s needs are readily available to staff. My letter defines celiac disease and cross contamination, and includes my daughter’s specific symptoms and history. I also ask for accommodations that will help include my child and ensure her safety. I keep it positive by always thanking people in advance for all they do to keep her allergy-safe.