Health Guide

Discovering a child has a peanut allergy can be a life altering experience. Many children have such a severe reaction to peanuts, that even the smallest amount can send a child into anaphylaxis. Parents dealing with peanut allergies and schools need to be vigilant in order to protect their children.

Peanut Allergies And Schools: Discussing Strategies

Before a child with a peanut allergy is sent to any outside the home environment, parents need to discuss their child’s allergy. Today, many child care places have all ready begun to realize how prevalent this allergy is; and; are more open to a parents suggestions. It is a good idea to approach the school and immediately explain how your child reacts to peanuts; and, how severe the allergy is. Do peanuts need to be banned from the classroom? If another child eats a peanut butter sandwich and then touches your child, can this cause a reaction? Does your child need to carry an epinephrine pen, in case of a sudden attack? The basic information need to be discussed in regards to peanut allergies and schools.

Once the school understands how your child may physically be affected by this allergy, the next step is discussing ways to safeguard your child. When dealing with peanut allergies and schools, it may be helpful to come in with an open mind. Schools have been finding new ways of dealing with this allergy for some time. Ask how the school is working with this. Do they have a peanut free table at lunch? Are children required to wash their hands after they eat to lessen the chance of accidentally touching someone with a peanut allergy? Discuss peanut allergies and schools own policies to then determine what the next course of action should be.

Make sure your child understands the severity of the situation. It is important that your child is also pro-active in their daily life when dealing with peanut allergies and schools. Sending out a notice to other parents in the classroom can also help. Most parents understand how important it is to provide appropriate snacks when there is a child with a peanut allergy. However, sometimes other parents don’t understand that many products are produced with peanut extract or in the same production lines with peanut products. Sending home a flyer with lists of approved snacks can help make it easier for everyone in the class.

Peanut allergies and schools can co-exist. Having good open communication with everyone involved is the most important step in making sure your child is safe at school.