It’s back-to-school time. Your child is going to have new teachers and perhaps even go to a different school than they did last year. It’s a great time to update your loved one’s action plan for allergies or asthma, especially if they may need to use an EpiPen.
Our board-certified allergists at Advanced Allergy & Asthma are your professional partners in protecting your child's health if they have allergies or asthma. The following are strategies to help your loved one cope with their sensitivities during the new school year.
Make appointments with teachers, administrators, and coaches at your child’s school to ensure they understand the severity of your child’s allergies or asthma. Explain your child’s usual symptoms and what can happen if they are exposed to a specific allergen or have an asthma attack. All responsible adults need to know what to do, including lunchroom and playground monitors for younger students.
Give key adults your child’s anaphylaxis emergency action plan, which includes directions and permission to administer your child’s EpiPen, along with emergency contacts. Ensure the school makes accommodations for your child’s allergies or asthma in writing.
Take a look at your child’s new classroom and school environment, and try to eliminate avoidable exposures. For instance, chalk creates dust that can irritate and inflame nasal passages and the respiratory tract.
Ensure your child doesn’t sit near a chalkboard in the classroom. Teens can explain their choice to sit away from dusty areas such as a chalkboard.
Mold is not uncommon in some schools. Inquire about the school’s ventilation system and whether it’s designed to trap mold or other allergens.
Note that some children are sensitive to air fresheners, perfumes, and scented cleaning products. Adequate ventilation can help with this issue as well.
If your loved one has a food allergy that’s severe enough that even casual contact, such as an unwashed tabletop, may cause a reaction, ensure the school makes a safe space for your loved one at lunch.
You know that your child’s lunch is allergen-free, but what about the child who sits next to them at lunch? Teach your child the importance of saying, “No, I have allergies,” when a friend offers food to share. When children are younger, it’s also helpful if your child’s teacher explains allergies to your kiddo’s classmates.
Your child loves recess, but on high pollen days, you know your child’s allergy symptoms soar when they’re outdoors.
Consider talking with your child’s allergist about treatment during high pollen days. You can also ask the school to arrange an accommodation for your child, whether it’s a study hall or an activity indoors.
Your loved one may be allergic to bees or another insect. Ensure the adults who supervise recess know what to do if your child is stung. Remind your loved one frequently about avoiding insects and ensure they know what to do as well.
If your child has asthma, ensure that the school makes an accommodation when vigorous physical activity could endanger them. Ensure the school has a written action plan to help your child navigate physical education and sports. Your child may need to use an inhaler before playing sports. Make sure your child knows the importance of staying hydrated.
Call Advanced Allergy & Asthma or request an appointment through our online portal today.
