(BPT) - Children spend anywhere from 800 to 1,100 hours at school each year. For those with food allergies , that time comes with added risks. From cafeteria meals to classroom snacks, the risk of a food allergy exposure is an everyday concern.
And with good reason: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 13 children — roughly two per classroom — are affected by food allergies. Of those, 42% have experienced at least one severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. For children at risk, even a small exposure can be life-threatening.
The good news? With the right preparation, you can help your child manage food allergies with care and consistency. Discover how to educate, plan and confidently communicate with school staff and other parents to s