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Relief for Allergies at School

Uncontrolled allergies can make a child tired and unfocused.

WebMD Feature

Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD

Help your child manage allergies at school with these tips.

Help Kids Claim Their Fame: Kids with allergies or asthma can excel in sports. But they won't have stamina if allergies are uncontrolled. Make sure kids take medications!

Circle of Support: Help kids get support at school. Meet with teachers, the nurse, and the coach to discuss the child's allergies or asthma. Develop a game plan.

Game Plan: Give the school nurse an "allergy card" with critical details -- your child's allergy triggers, symptoms, medications.

The Same Page: What's your school's policy about giving out medications to kids? Make sure your child can get medications when needed.

Use Soft Tissues: When kids' allergies are at their peak, tender noses get sore fast. Look for tissues with lotion.

Relief During Recess: On high pollen count days, have your child take allergy medicine a half hour before recess or sports.

Book Bag Busted: If your child has allergies and asthma, get approval to send an inhaler in the backpack. You may need a written asthma plan from the doctor.

Flush It: Kids' eyes itchy and red? If your child's doctor approves, use artificial tears to flush out allergens.

School Work: Could your child's allergies be getting worse? Ask teachers to alert you to coughing, red eyes, sleepiness, or lack of focus.

Chalk Assault: At school, chalk dust is just one allergen that stirs up allergy or asthma attacks.

Kids and Coughs: Is your child coughing a lot in class? That could be a sign of allergies. Talk to your child's doctor.

Control Issues: Is your child missing school due to allergies and asthma? Then get a better treatment plan. Talk to your child's doctor about a written asthma plan.

Loud and Clear: Kids got clogged sinuses? For older children, a spritz of saline spray helps clear nasal passages - - so they breathe easier.

Recess Request: On high-pollen days, kids should take allergy medications about 30 minutes before recess or sports. Talk to teachers.

Soothe Sniffers: If your child's nose is raw and red from blowing, a dab of petroleum jelly helps them get through the school day.

Dry as Dust: Encourage kids to drink lots of water during the school day since sneezing and blowing can leave them parched.

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