Allergic Children and Sunday School Classes
Allergy Challenges and Suggestions for Bible Study Youth Groups
Aug 13, 2009
In the fall, many children return to regular attendance at Sunday school classes and Bible study groups. Just as with returning to school, this raises issues of concern for children who suffer from allergies.
Allergens at Sunday School Classes and Bible Study Groups
A variety of allergens can be encountered in a Sunday school class or Bible study group setting:
- Sometimes treats or snacks are provided for activities or celebrations.
- The materials used for decorations, crafts or activities may be an allergic trigger for some children suffering from contact dermatitis.
- Some buildings are old and may have air quality or mold problems. If activities take place in a basement this is always a potential problem.
- Some buildings still use carpeting, which over time will become full of mold and dust mites.
- Churches often use real flowers, especially during funerals and on special occasions.
- Incense, cleaners and personal hygiene products may increase the risk of an inhaled allergic reaction.
- Outdoor celebrations and activities bring with them the risk of allergens from insects, pollen and molds.
- Many resources such as books and song sheets are shared at church services. People can contaminate objects that they touch.
- People can also carry allergens such as pet fur and dander on their clothes.
Tips for Handling Allergies at Sunday School and Bible Study
While it is important to address any potential allergy risks, it is also important to make sure that the allergic child is treated as normally as possible and included in activities.
There are many proactive steps that care givers can take to help create a safe environment during church activities:
- One advantage that the care giver has at church, as opposed to at school, is that she can attend the group with the child or stay close by to provide support.
- It is important for the care giver to meet with the leaders of the groups and activities. These people should be given complete information on the allergic child’s condition, especially any medication being used. A written plan with the child’s picture is a good idea. The child’s doctor can help to compose a written information plan.
- The leaders of the church and group may be able to make some adjustments for the child. For example, scents and foods such as peanuts can be banned and artificial flowers can be used instead of real ones. There are many adjustments that most groups are willing to make to keep a child included in activities.
- The child should be given age-appropriate education about her condition.
- When there are treats the care giver can send in safe treats for the child to share with the group. Treats for the allergic child can also be kept on hand for unplanned occasions.
- The family or child can have their own set of books or materials to bring to and from church, avoiding sharing possibly contaminated materials.
- The allergic child can be paired up or partnered with other children who do not own pets with fur.
- The group leaders can be asked to substitute materials for crafts and activities to avoid allergenic substances.
Sunday school classes and Bible study groups are settings where an allergic child may run into allergens. Taking proactive steps can help to create a safer environment.
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