Our Approach to Food Safety and Allergies at School

At Stepping Stone Montessori, the health and safety of every child is a top priority. One area that requires thoughtful attention and ongoing education is food safety, particularly when it comes to managing food allergies.

Understanding the Importance of Food Safety in Schools
Food allergies are a growing concern in early childhood education. According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 13 children in the U.S. has a food allergy. Even small traces of allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, or eggs can cause serious reactions. Some cases produce a reaction from airborne particles, and the child does not even have to touch the food in order to have an adverse reaction. That is why it is essential for schools to foster a culture of awareness, prevention, and preparedness.

Our Commitment to Allergy Awareness and Prevention
At Stepping Stone Montessori, we have implemented a comprehensive approach to ensure that every child—regardless of their dietary needs—can learn and thrive in a safe and inclusive environment. Here are a few ways we maintain high food safety standards:

• Staff Training and Certification: All our staff members receive regular training on food safety and allergy awareness. This includes recognizing allergic reactions, preventing cross-contamination, and responding to emergencies with preparedness and confidence.
• Allergy-Safe Classrooms and Snack Protocols: Each classroom maintains updated allergy lists and medical action plans. When distributing snacks or planning classroom activities, our staff members follow strict verification procedures to avoid exposure to allergens.
• Approved Snacks and Food Guidelines: We encourage families to bring only pre-approved, allergy safe snacks to school. Our guidelines are clearly communicated to parents to ensure that every child can participate in snack times and celebrations safely.
• Emergency Preparedness: Administration is equipped with easily accessible emergency medication (e.g., EpiPens), and our staff is trained in how and when to use them. Emergency response plans are reviewed regularly.
• Inclusive Celebrations: We love to celebrate birthdays and holidays at school, always with safety in mind. Our celebration policies are designed to make sure every child is included, with food options that are safe for everyone.

Partnering with Parents
We believe that communication with families is essential. When parents share allergy information and collaborate with us on meal planning and special events, we can work together to build a trusting, secure environment for all children.

A Continuous Commitment
Food safety is not a one-time initiative – it is an ongoing effort. At Stepping Stone Montessori, we continually review and update our practices to stay current with the latest health guidance and best practices. Our goal is simple: to create a place where all children feel safe, supported, and included.