Approximately 35% of kids with a food allergy that were older than 5 years old have been bullied, teased or harassed because of their food allergy (Lieberman et. al. 2010 Oct;105(4):282-6). This kind of bullying not only has serious emotional and social impact but can also pose a dangerous physical threat.
SOLUTION:
You also serve an important role as an educator and can help give all of your students an understanding and empathy that will help create a supportive environment and discourage isolation and bullying. Consider including food allergy education as part of the health education curriculum and consider incorporating it into content areas.
RESOURCES:
What are Food Allergies? Explaining to Kids What it Means to Live with a Food Allergy
