As the new school year draws closer, it’s a time of excitement and anticipation for many students. Being moms and caring for our own families has given us a deeper understanding of how to care for you and your family. We understand your concerns returning to school with allergies. Whether they’re triggered by pollen, dust, or other factors, allergies can make the school environment challenging to navigate. Fear not! We offer tips and precautions so that going back to school with allergies can be a safe and enriching experience.
1. Consult with a Healthcare Professional: Schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified allergists or friendly physician assistants to discuss your allergies. We can provide accurate diagnoses, allergy testing, and guidance on managing your allergies effectively.
2. Create an Allergy Action Plan: We will help you develop an allergy action plan. This document outlines specific steps to take in case of an allergic reaction and should be shared with teachers, school nurses, and other relevant school staff.
3. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about your allergies, their triggers, and the symptoms of a reaction. Share this information with your teachers, classmates, friends, and school personnel to foster a supportive and informed community.
4. Communicate with the School: Notify the school about your allergies and provide them with any necessary medical documentation. This enables the school to take appropriate precautions and make accommodations.
5. Collaborate with the School Nurse: Establish a relationship with the school nurse, who can provide immediate medical assistance if needed. Ensure they are aware of your allergies and emergency procedures.
6. Allergy-Friendly Lunches and Snacks: If you have food allergies, consider bringing your own lunches and snacks to avoid accidental exposure to allergens. Make sure to label your food clearly and inform your lunchtime supervisors about your dietary restrictions. Read more at our blog post Navigating Back To School With Food Allergies.
Returning to school with allergies shouldn’t prevent anyone from enjoying a fulfilling educational experience. With proper planning and awareness, going back to school can be an exciting and enriching journey for everyone, regardless of their allergies.
Since asthma and allergies are very common among school children, many schools have plans in place to manage these conditions. But each school is different. And each child’s needs are different. Proper planning and a partnership with your child’s school can help you and the school staff create a safe and healthy learning environment for your student. And you may not need to do every step each year as your child gets older and becomes more independent. AAFA offers helpful resources also. Visit their website to learn more.
Our board-certified allergists, experienced PAs and friendly office staff are here to answer questions and help be prepared. Contact us today!
