In the past, parents have done the heavy lifting when it comes to educating schools about food allergy management. In many cases it has been their responsibility to educate the other parents, their child’s classmates, and even teachers and other staff. This can be a practical and social challenge as schedules, other responsibilities, difficult subject matter, differences in opinion, social challenges, and relationship dynamics can make this very challenging.
SOLUTION: CREATE COMMUNITIES OF SUPPORT
Aware and understanding school communities can create environments that can support students with food allergies. Once staff, other students, and parents understand why food allergy management is important and how it is needed for safety, then they can play their role in creating communities of support for students with food allergies. Schools, with school nursing at the lead, should establish policies and procedures to not only manage a student’s direct allergy care but to also include school wide, role appropriate awareness and education.
RESOURCES:
Schools.AllergyHome.org
Food Allergy Management and Education (FAME) Manual & Tool-Kit
NASN Epinephrine Resource School Nurse Program
