The field trip permission forms have started coming home already. I remember the first field trip my daughter went on without me and how nervous I was. Of course I was nervous that she would get lost or that the bus would wreck or who knows what else my over active mom imagination devised. Then throw in her food allergy and I was a wreck. Well, she is in fourth grade now and even though thoughts cross my mind still, I don’t overreact or panic anymore (at least I don’t think so).  But how do you maintain sanity when your child who has a severe allergy is not only away from you, but also away from the school where you feel he is somewhat safe?

Here are some field trips that I have found useful:

• When the permission first comes home and you sign it, include in BIG LETTERS on the form that your child’s medication (Epipen, Benadryl, whatever) NEEDS to go with him. Also include that a professional skilled at administering medicine needs to go and be identified (usually the teachers are skilled, but I think it’s a good idea to reiterate so they know who it is before anything happens).
• Call the teacher the day or two before the field trip to remind her that medication needs to go and to remind her of what your child needs to avoid.
• You may want to call the nurse as well to remind her that medication needs to be sent on the field trip.
• Some parents want their child to wear an identifying shirt of bracelet to remind of their food allergies. The shirt may be a good preschool idea, but switch to the bracelet as your child gets older.
• You may want to send in a note as well, on the day of the field trip, something to this affect:
Dear Teacher,
Thank you for helping to keep Johnny safe today on the field trip and for remembering to take his medication with you. Remember he needs to stay away from all nuts. Here are my emergency numbers in case you need them, don’t hesitate to call. Thanks again,
Best,
Johnny’s Mom
• Remind your child about being safe with food. Kids are out of their usual element on a field trip and may forget some routine things. A gentle reminder is a good idea and to go over the allergy fundamentals.
• Keep your phone nearby, say a prayer, and trust that all will be. Your child will have a great learning day.

I remember one year my daughter’s teacher took a backpack with her on the field trip for the medication. She had seven Epipens in it, seven!