As we enter the holiday season, many classrooms and grade levels will celebrate with special activities, treats, and events. This is always a joyful time of year, but it’s also important that we keep all students and staff safe by being mindful of allergies and sensitivities. Some of the most common allergens among children include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, and certain fruits such as strawberries or kiwi. In addition, we have students and staff with latex allergies, which can be triggered by contact with latex balloons, gloves, or other materials. Even small exposures to these allergens can cause serious reactions for some individuals.
To help keep our celebrations safe and inclusive, please take a few extra precautions. Before sending in food or treats, check with your child’s teacher about classroom-specific allergy information. Whenever possible, choose prepackaged items with clear ingredient labels or consider non-food treats such as stickers, pencils, or small games. Please also avoid bringing latex balloons or other latex materials into the school. Be sure that surfaces and hands are thoroughly washed before and after handling food, and avoid cross-contamination by keeping allergy-safe foods separate from others.
Thank you for helping us create a safe and welcoming environment for all of our people. Your care and attention make a meaningful difference and allow everyone to enjoy the season’s celebrations with peace of mind.
