The start of a new school year brings excitement, routines, and new experiences. But for families of children with allergies or asthma, it also requires some extra preparation to ensure a safe and healthy return to the classroom.

At the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia, we’re here to help you get ahead of any potential issues so your child can focus on learning—not sneezing, wheezing, or worrying about allergic reactions.

Why Allergy and Asthma Prep Matters

Children spend most of their day at school, and that environment can expose them to common allergy and asthma triggers like pollen, dust mites, mold, classroom pets, or certain foods. A well-thought-out care plan and updated treatment can make a world of difference in managing symptoms and preventing emergencies.

Back-to-School Checklist for Allergy & Asthma Management

Here’s what you can do to make sure your child heads back to school with the tools and support they need:

1. Schedule a Pre-School Year Check-Up

Scheduling an appointment with one of our allergy and asthma specialists is the first step. At this visit, your provider can:

• Review symptom control
• Determine need for appropriate testing. Whether this be allergy testing or breathing tests for asthma, your provider will determine what is required for an accurate diagnosis and effective care plan.
• Prescribe, or adjust, medications. As children grow, they may require a different treatment plan.
• Discuss starting new therapies, like allergy immunotherapy, so that your child is ready to perform and learn at their highest level.

2. Update Medical Action Plans

Schools require documentation outlining what to do in the event of an allergic reaction or asthma flare-up. Make sure these plans are up to date and signed by your child’s healthcare provider:

• Asthma Action Plan
• Food Allergy/Anaphylaxis Action Plan

Bring these forms to your back-to-school visit so they’re ready for your child’s school nurse or administrators.

3. Refill Prescriptions & Check Expiration Dates

Ensure all necessary medications are filled and current, including:

• Daily allergy or asthma medications
• Rescue inhalers
• Epinephrine devices (check the expiration date!)

Remember that you will need to supply the schools with certain medications. And two Epi devices are recommended at home and at school.

4. Communicate with the School

Inform teachers, nurses, coaches, and cafeteria staff about your child’s allergies or asthma. Make sure your child knows how to speak up and recognize symptoms, especially if they’re older and more independent.

Preparing College-Bound Students

If your child is heading off to college, here are a few extra steps:

• Coordinate care at school: If your student receives allergy shots or drops, or any therapy that requires office visits, speak with your allergist about coordinating care while they are away at school.
• Discuss food allergy advancements: For students with food allergies, speak with your food allergy expert about the latest advancements in food allergy management. There have been significant developments in recent years that may offer added safety and peace of mind as your child begins this next chapter.
• Pack a medical safety kit: Include appropriate items which may include inhalers, epinephrine devices, medications, and updated action plans.

The Goal: A Healthy, Successful School Year

Children with well-controlled allergies and asthma are better able to focus, participate, and thrive in the classroom and beyond. With a little planning, your child can start the year strong and stay that way.

Need help preparing? The Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia offers prompt appointments, often available within 24 to 48 hours, to help your family get school-ready.

For more information, call us at (770) 459-0620 or schedule an appointment online.