Starting Kindergarten

by Alexander
August 7, 2009

Dear Alexander,

(Q) I am going into kindergarten this year. My mom has always watched out for me, but now I’ll be in school without her. I am allergic to peanuts and tree nuts, and I am scared of not having my mom with me to make sure I don’t get a reaction. What do I do?

(A) I am sure you have been taught many things by your mom about taking care of your food allergies, such as not to eat any food except for the food that she or another trusted adult says is okay. You know to clean your eating area and wash your hands before and after you eat, and to ask questions about food ingredients.

Each year, thousands of kids who have food allergies go to school, but it takes some work from parents and the people who work at the school to come up with a plan for how food allergies will be taken care of. You can get involved, too, by teaching your new classmates about food allergies and why it’s important for you to be careful about what you eat.

Remember the teacher, nurse, and all of the people who work at the school are there to help you stay safe. If you have a question, or if you don’t feel good after eating, tell them right away. Also, be sure to talk to your parents about how you are feeling. They will help you so that you do not feel scared.

Good luck!

Your friend,

Alexander the Elephant

Editor’s Note: The information above is not designed to take the place of a doctor’s instructions. Patients are urged to contact a doctor for specific information regarding guidelines for care.

We would like to know what you think? dan@youngchronicle.com

Source: Food Allergy