The SpecialMoms Parenting Magazine 3rd Issue | Page 8

Back to School with Food Allergies Know Your School’s Food Allergy Policy Consider a 504 Plan Do you feel like the Medical Action Plan/ IHP isn’t enough? Do you need guidelines setup in the classroom and lunchroom to ensure the safety of your child? That is where a 504 Plan comes in to play. A 504 plan is very similar to an IHP. The only difference is that a 504 plan provides guidelines for changes to be made in the classroom or during activities to provide a safe learning environment. This would include the classroom, art room, playground, lunch room, bus, etc. This form is created in partnership with the school. With the rapid increase of food allergies, many schools have their own food allergy policies set-up. Be sure to find out where your school stands with food allergies so you can better plan and prepare. Good Communication is Key Meet with your child’s school nurse, principal and teachers prior to the first day of school. Go over your child’s list of allergens, the medical action plan/IHP that you have created. Always assume that they are 100% new to managing food allergies. I always take in trainer EpiPens and train my sons’ teachers on site. I also go over all possible signs and symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction, as each reaction can be different. Also, be sure to discuss classroom policies for food in the classroom, hand washing, etc. Sending your food allergic child to school doesn’t have to be filled with dread and anxiety. You, too, can be excited about this new adventure that your child is about to embark upon. Just make sure that you plan and prepare in advance and communicate regularly with your child’s school and teacher. † Lauren Kossack Lauren Kossack is the founder and author of the blog “Our Life as an Epi-Family”. On “The Epi-Family,” Lauren writes with a mix of vivid stories, food allergy news, recipes, parenting tips, and questions of faith. She bares her heart as she shares her family’s struggles, victories, and daily adventures. She is a proud wife and mom to two young boys who have life-threatening food allergies and appear often on her blog. facebook facebook 8 twitter twitter pinterest