Back to School with Food Allergies: What Families Need to Know

The Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations podcast returns with a look at planning for the new school year for children and teens with food allergies. Getting ready for school can feel overwhelming, especially when managing food allergies. But starting early helps ensure your child is safe, supported, and prepared for the year ahead.

This episode is made in partnership with The Itch Podcast. Co-hosts Payel Gupta, MD, and Kortney are joined by allergist Nicole Chase, MD, to talk over what you need to know in preparation for back to school. She shares helpful advice about school forms, allergy action plans, and how to teach kids to speak up about their allergies. You’ll also learn about different types of epinephrine, including a nasal spray that might be easier for children and school staff to use.

You can listen to the podcast on ItchPodcast.com or download it for listening anytime, anywhere, at:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Any mention of brands is also informational and not an endorsement. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical questions or concerns.

Thank you to ARS Pharma for sponsoring this episode.

What we cover about back to school preparations for food allergies

Getting ready for a new school year takes time. This podcast breaks it down into easy steps for families managing food allergies. Here’s what we cover in the episode:

  •  504 plans explained. What they are, how to request one, and why they matter for legal protection and clear school accommodations.
  • Anaphylaxis Action Plans. What’s included, how they differ from 504 plans, and why they take the guesswork out of emergencies.
  • Epinephrine device options. From auto-injectors to nasal spray, what’s available and how to choose the best fit for your child.
  • What to work on this summer to build allergy confidence. The rules, responsibilities, and privileges kids should practice to stay safe and feel more in control.
  • Self-advocacy & communication tips. How to help your child speak up, navigate cafeteria dynamics, and respond to food allergy bullying.

Timestamps for our back to school podcast episode

01:11 – Meet Dr. Nicki Chase

02:25 – Start school planning early

04:51 – What a 504 plan does

07:54 – What goes in an allergy action plan

12:25 – When kids can carry their own epinephrine

15:43 – Choosing the right epinephrine device

20:29 – Helping kids feel confident over summer

29:55 – How to remember your epinephrine before leaving home

Resources about how to prepare for back to school with food allergies 

More podcasts about food allergies