Creating a New Community of Support for Students With Food Allergies

Abstract

Managing food allergies in schools is a necessary but complex task. Breakdowns in implementation of school policies have resulted in devastating consequences and can create a divided school community. School nurses play the central role in the food allergy education of staff, parents and students. An educated school community can then be united in supporting children with food allergies. A thoughtful approach that takes these different members of the school community into consideration is essential to put a successful food allergy policy into action. This article outlines issues to consider when educating each specific group as well as discussing the challenges that can hamper school community–wide education and their potential solutions. The ultimate goal of food allergy management education is to create a community of support and to create a self-sustaining environment of understanding and awareness that may save time, decrease divisiveness, and even save a life.