As summer comes to a close, parents of children with allergies face some unique and often scary challenges. At Southwest Allergy & Asthma Center, we understand the importance of preparing your child for a safe and successful school year.
Here’s a Q&A guide to help you navigate back-to-school season with confidence!
Q: What are the first steps I should take before the school year starts?
A: Begin by scheduling an appointment with your child’s allergist. Ensure that their allergy and/or asthma action plan is up-to-date and that you have all necessary medications, such as epinephrine auto-injectors, rescue inhalers and antihistamines, ready for the school year. Next, contact the school to inform them about your child’s allergies and arrange a meeting with their teachers, the school nurse and any other relevant staff.
Q: How can I effectively communicate my child’s allergies to the school?
A: It’s crucial to have clear and open communication with your child’s school staff. Provide them with a written allergy action plan from your child’s allergist, which should include detailed instructions on managing an allergic reaction. Make sure the plan is accessible to all staff members who interact with your child. Consider preparing a letter outlining your child’s specific allergies, potential symptoms and emergency procedures.
Q: What should I include in my child’s allergy action plan?
A: An effective allergy action plan should include a list of your child’s allergies, detailed instructions on how to recognize symptoms of an allergic reaction and step-by-step instructions for administering medications. Lastly, make sure to add all emergency contact information.
Q: How can I ensure my child knows how to manage their allergies at school?
A: Educate your child about their allergies and the importance of avoiding allergens. Teach them to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction and how to seek help immediately. Role-play different scenarios with your child so they feel confident in handling potential situations. Ensure they know how to use their emergency medications and emphasize the importance of not sharing food with classmates.
Q: What should I pack in my child’s school bag to manage their allergies?
A: Equip your child’s school bag with a copy of their allergy action plan, emergency medications, wet wipes for cleaning surfaces before eating, safe snacks and easy lunch options. If appropriate, you can also add any medical identification jewelry your child may have.
At Southwest Asthma & Allergy Center, we’re dedicated to a safe school year for all.
If you’re ready to tackle the start of the year, and your child’s allergies, give us a call to set up a consultation today!
