Help for Teachers

Note to teachers

Parents who have children with celiac disease who are entering a new school or starting a new school year need to inform teachers and school nurses about the situation with their children. We recommend that parents send a note letting these people know about the importance of maintaining a gluten-free environment for your child. The following is an example of a note that you can use for this situation. Please feel free to copy, change, and/or add to it for your own purposes (Suzanne Simpson, RD, Nutritionist).

Sample Note to Teacher

My child has celiac disease. It is an autoimmune disease with an intolerance to gluten. Because of this he/she must follow a strict diet. If they ingest any gluten, they will get very sick. They cannot have any wheat, rye, barley or oats or anything that is made from them. Some common classroom items that are problematic for my child are: play dough, some paints and crayons, many snack foods and regular cupcakes or cakes. Alternate snacks that everyone can enjoy are popcorn, fresh fruits, raisins, fresh carrots or celery or plain potato chips. If there is a birthday, I will provide a gluten-free cupcake or snack for my child. I appreciate your understanding and sensitivity on this very important health issue. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. I look forward to our school year together.