PUSD Nurse's October Health Update

From the Pleasanton Unified School District:

October Health Updates:

In an effort to increase communication regarding health issues of students in our Pleasanton Unified School District, we will be providing monthly health updates.

Healthy Kids & Safe Schools:

New Guidelines for Food and Parties at Elementary Schools: In an effort to promote health and to provide a safe environment for students, new guidelines have been established regarding food for school parties and celebrations. Food treats for birthdays have been eliminated. Please do NOT send in cookies, cupcakes, or other treats.

Instead, students can share a non-food item like a favorite book, a game, or a piece of playground equipment (ball, jump rope).

In addition, classroom parties will be limited to four per year. Food for these parties should consider students with food allergies and be healthful in nature (like cheese squares, fresh fruit, veggie tray, or hummus and pita bread).

Food Allergies are Serious Business: Every school in our district has students with life-threatening food allergies. Parents can help by being aware of those students and by adhering to the guidelines above. In addition, these actions will provide additional protection:

Teach your children to NOT share/trade food with other students
Model and encourage diligent hand washing. Be especially cautious with peanut and nut products as the oils from these products travel easily on hands and can pose a grave danger to food-allergic students. It would be great if kids learned to wash hands both before AND after eating.

Teach your kids to be compassionate towards people with health issues. In time we all face them. Students with food allergies are truly at the mercy of those around them. Let’s create a safe and nurturing environment for all kids.

Next month we will feature Type 2 diabetes (we are all at risk) and influenza (yes, we are entering flu season). Until then – know we are out there in all of the schools looking out for the health needs of your student.

To your good health,

Susan Han, RN, MSN

Carrie Stavropoulos, RN

Mary Anne Lindahl, RN

Amy Sluss, RN