Food allergies and schools are some of the biggest challenges we experience as parents….until we educate ourselves. Managing school still requires work, especially at the beginning of each school year and our diligence can never stop. Thankfully, we have so many wonderful resources available now…check ‘em out!
Websites
FAAN SchoolGuidelinesGuide for managing food allergies at school created by the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network and endorsed by the following groups National School Board Association, National Association of School Nurses, National Association of Secondary School Principals and the American School Food Association. These groups also participated in the creation of this document.
The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network’s School, Childcare and Camp resource link–this remains one of my most favorites since I can print out a copy of an Emergency Action Plan, a copy of a study explaining why wipes are an important prevention strategy for allergen avoidance and their down loadable Back-to-School Kit. From this Kit, I am able to print out Be A P.A.L. posters and brochures, Food Allergy Awareness Posters, a Teacher Check List and a Food Allergy Presentation. I ALWAYS do a Be A P.A.L. presentation in my child’s school. Don’t miss this down load.
The Food Allergy Initiative is also a leading Food Allergy organization who offers outstanding school information. A must visit too! This website even tells you what to do if your school is not cooperating!
Allergic Child website is just an overall fantastic website that offers a wealth of information. In addition, you can sign up for an e-newsletter too! This website is the brain child of Nicole Smith, a mother of a food allergic son, who also posts on this website. Her school section offers solid advice.
Allergy Moms website/blog is another wonderful resource. Gina Clowes is also a coach and not only offers great articles and insight, but can help coach you through this journey. Here, I have linked you to an article Dr. Robert Woods wrote for her regarding school. It’s worth the read! She is very logical, grounded and simply gives great advice.
Why Risk It from Canada is an amazing teen website. This link is to their High School page. Love it! Love everything about it. Real language, real kids, real food allergy. A must visit for anyone with a teen.
School Nutrition Association has an interesting link that offers pods casts (and transcripts) on the following topics that are directed at school food service professionals:
- Legal and Regulatory Requirements for Managing Food Allergies in Schools
- Guidance for Managing Food Allergies in Schools
- Team work is key to Successful Management in Schools
- Food Safety Considerations and Food Allergy Management Best Practices for School and Food Service
In addition…the School Nutrition and USDA offer a three part Managing Food Allergies in Schools Webinar.
Video Bonus training tool
From the Food Allergy Initiative (FAI) on the emotional and physical impact of food allergies on families. I have tears in my eyes every time I watch this! It is only six minutes long, but it sings our song well. I like to use it when educating new teachers on where I am coming from and why I am asking for their support.
