#153 - Food Allergy Bullying: How to Talk to Your Child and Their School

Food allergy bullying is more common than most parents realize, and most kids never bring it up on their own. Research shows it affects up to 1 in 3 children with food allergies, and the signs can be easy to miss: a lunchbox that keeps coming home full, a sudden reluctance to go to school, or quietly backing off from safe food habits to avoid standing out. In this episode, psychologist Dr. Amanda Whitehouse joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to talk about what food allergy bullying actually looks like, how to start a conversation with your child without shutting them down, and when and how to bring the school into it. What we cover in this episode about food allergy bullying What food allergy bullying looks like. From verbal teasing and social exclusion to threats involving allergens, and how it differs from everyday teasing. Signs your child may be being bullied. Behavioral shifts to watch for include school avoidance, changes in eating habits, and withdrawal from activities they used to love. How to start the conversation. Why open-ended questions and connection before action are key to getting your child to open up. When and how to involve the school. How to approach teachers and administrators, know your child's rights, and document what's happening. Building resilience after bullying. How involving your child in the solution, rather than swooping in to fix it, helps them feel empowered rather than powerless. *********** Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Genentech and Kaléo for sponsoring today’s episode.  This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.