Teachers can be great allies in keeping your child with phenylketonuria safe and successful in school, but you'll need to make sure they have all the knowledge they need to help. Use these suggestions to create a information packet to bring educators up to speed.
Five Things Teachers Need to Know
1. Due to his inability to metabolize protein, there are some foods my child should not eat. I will provide you with a list of these, and ask for your assistance in monitoring his diet.
2. If my child eats a food on the "forbidden" list, she will not have an allergic-type reaction, but her diet will have to be adjusted as a result. Please don't hesitate to let me know if you see her slip.
3. If there are classroom parties or other events involving food, please let me know in advance so I can send in an allowable treat for my child or work with other parents to plan food appropriate for all.
4. It's okay to let my child's classmates know about his condition as long as it is done in a positive and respectful way. I'd be happy to help prepare a program.
5. Please keep the lines of communication open between our home and the school. My child needs all the adults in her life working together.
Printouts to Share with Teachers
A Teacher's Guide to PKU
Source: Texas Dept. of Health
Education of Students with Phenylketonuria (PKU): Information for Teachers, Administrators and Other School Personnel.
Source: Education Resources Information Center
Letter to Send to the School
Source: University of Washington PKU Clinic
Accommodating Children with Special Dietary Needs in the School Nutrition Programs: Guide for School Food Service Staff
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service
Phynylketonuria (PKU): A Leaflet for Teachers
Source: National Society for Pheynlyketonuria
