Protect your Allergic Child in School

A severe allergic reaction to milk, peanuts, wheat,school. For example, did you know that once you
shellfish, latex and other types of triggers can keep acreate a plan with your child's school authorities, a
youngster from fully enjoying childhood. And that's notcase manager will be assigned to over see his or her
right.well being? They are your "extra set of eyes" who will
We know how challenging and frightening it is to sendmake sure your child isn't in the presence of allergenic
a child with a severe allergy out into the world. Asubstances, and make sure medication is administered
simple birthday party becomes a potentially deadlyproperly and in a timely manner if exposure should
obstacle course for a child with a severe food allergyoccur.
or latex allergy. You can't stop your mind fromYour child's school must comply with this Federal
questioning everything; did the hostess remember torequirement, and you'll find they're glad to do so if you
make sure no peanut oil (or wheat, or milk) was usedapproach them with a comprehensive plan. A school
in the cake? Will the festive balloons trigger yourpsychologist is going to be your biggest ally during this
precious one's latex allergy? Whatever the cause ofprocess, so prepare yourself for a brush with relief
your child's severe allergic reaction-wheat allergy,once you meet with him or her.
shellfish allergy, peanut allergy, milk allergy, etc.-youOnce you have a 504 Plan in place for your allergic
know it is out there.child to guide them past potential dangers, it will also
When children go to school, the stakes and stress rise.foster your confidence in helping your child live life to
Parents of a child with a severe allergic reaction facethe fullest, safely. Working together with school
the dilemma of knowing most school staff may not beofficials, we can help your child safely access and
aware of how dangerous everyday objects andenjoy more of the wonderful world in which we are
foods can be. It is important to be prepared toblessed to live.
advocate for your child by working with schoolNeed more relief? Any 504 plan you develop applies
officials.across the country, to every school environment, so
Have you ever heard of Section 504?even if you move to another city from the one in
Section 504 is a little-known federal program that willwhich you now live, your child's Plan goes with you.
protect your child from exposure to allergy triggers at