As the school year winds down, we parents are always thinking about what it next on the agenda. For many of us, it’s summer camp. And whether it’s a mother’s morning out, a day camp or a sleep away camp, the worry of food allergies stays in the back (or front) of our minds. But camps are safe and a food allergy is no reason to stay away. Here are some tips to make it easier on you and safer for your child:

• Upon registration, inquire about provisions for food allergies (do campers bring their own food, are counselors trained in Epipens, is there a nurse on hand, where will medication be kept, are there policies on high allergen foods).
• Speak with someone directly. In person is always better, but phone works too. You probably don’t want this conversation by email, because a face and/or a voice is much effective. You can do this at registration time, now or right before camp starts. Don’t wait until the first day to make your child’s needs known; it’s too hectic and something may get lost in translation.
• If food is supplied and you’re not comfortable with it, send in your child’s lunch or snack.
• Make notes on forms. All camps should have some sort of medical forms to fill out and these usually have space for allergies. You can detail your family plans (what foods are off limits, what the symptoms your child tends to exhibit are, when medication needs to be used).
• Take the same provisions you do at school. Remind your child to not eat other people’s food, wash hands, check ingredients on any snacks brought in.
• Speak to the counselor on the day camp starts. She or he should already be aware, but a reminder is a good idea. Ask if he or she will be keeping any medication on hand and go over signs and symptoms and when to medicate.
• Leave your emergency numbers. Even if it’s just a few morning hours, you will feel better if you know they can get in touch with you.
• If it is overnight camp, make sure you have dialogued thoroughly with all necessary personnel. Make sure all medication will stay in date for as long as your child is there. You may want to let the parents of the kids in his group be aware of the allergy as well, in case they are sending care packages (remember some parents are sympathetic and will do what they can, others don’t really care).
• Relax, let your child have a good time and enjoy the summer!