Teach Primary Issue 19.5

teachwire.net/primary 61 P icture the scene: it’s someone’s birthday in class, there’s a tray of cupcakes, and the room is buzzing with excitement. Lovely, right? But for a child with a food allergy, it can feel like stepping into a danger zone. One wrong move, one accidental bite, and things can go downhill fast. Managing food allergies in a busy primary classroom isn’t just about banning peanuts and hoping for the best. It’s about being switched on, building a community of understanding, and making sure every child feels safe and included. So, how can we do that without turning into the Allergy Police? Let’s talk it through. According to recent figures, about 1 in 13 children has a food allergy. That’s at least two children in the average-sized primary class. And while some allergies cause mild reactions like a rash or a runny nose, others can lead to full-blown anaphylaxis – a medical emergency that needs immediate action. We can avoid the drama by being prepared. 1. Stay calm First: know what an allergic reaction looks like. Hives, swelling, coughing, difficulty breathing – they’re all red flags. Make sure you and your team are trained to spot the signs and know how to use an adrenaline auto-injector, even if it makes you squeamish. The child would rather be jabbed by you than the alternative option. When it’s a real emergency, staying calm and acting fast can literally save a child’s life. 2. Think beyond lunchtime Allergies don’t clock off at lunchtime. Think about art projects (lentils, anyone?), science experiments (egg cartons?), and even reward treats. Anything that goes in – or near – a child’s mouth needs to be checked. And that includes their hands after they’ve handled the items mentioned. Better still, get into the habit of asking: Is this safe for everyone in the room? before you plan activities. 3. Talk about it Children are great at looking out for each other – if they understand what’s going on. Teach your class about allergies early in the year. Keep it simple: explain what an allergy is, why it matters, and how they can help by washing hands, not sharing food, and telling an adult if a friend feels unwell. When children know better, they do better. 4. Be positive No child should feel like the awkward one just because of their allergy. Avoid singling them out ("You can't have this because you're allergic...") and instead frame it positively. Try saying something like “Here’s your VIP version – made just for you!”. Celebrate safe choices. Encourage everyone to think inclusively. A simple shift in language makes a world of difference. 5. Have a plan An Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP) isn’t just paperwork. It’s a lifeline. Make sure you know the plan for each allergic pupil in your class – and that all staff (including supply teachers) are briefed, too. Practise emergency drills calmly and kindly, just like you would for fire alarms. That way, everyone knows what to do, and nobody panics when it really counts. Supporting pupils with food allergies doesn’t mean wrapping them in cotton wool or turning school into a clinical zone. You just need to give every child the knowledge, freedom and confidence to be part of the community, safely and fully. When we normalise allergy awareness, we’re not just protecting children; we’re empowering them. And in the end, isn’t that what great teaching is all about? TP DON’T touch that! www.teachwire.net | 61 “Normalising allergy awareness empowers children” Davina steel is a former research scientist and the bestselling author of Have You Ever Seen a Bee with Hives? (£16.99, Rethink Press). Arming yourself – and your pupils – with up-to-date information on allergies will help you avoid classroom drama, says Davina Steel davinasteel.co.uk HE A L TH & WE L L BE I NG S P E C I A L