The Food Allergy SMART Program is designed for schools, preschools, and early learning services. It provides age-appropriate allergy education and awareness for children and students.
The program also offers tailored sessions for teachers and educators, bridging the gap between formal first aid training and best practices in real-world school and early learning environments. While not medical training, these sessions offer practical, relevant insights into managing allergies within your specific setting.
Sessions are available in person or via Zoom.
The Food Allergy SMART Program was developed by Jackie Nevard, author and founder of My Food Allergy Friends (External Link), in response to the significant gap in allergy education for students. While much of the focus has traditionally been on training staff, it's often fellow students who are first to notice when something is wrong with a peer. Equipping children with a basic understanding of allergies can be life-saving, enabling them to recognise signs of anaphylaxis and seek help quickly.
Children can also play an important role in prevention by understanding the importance of not sharing food and washing hands. Once they understand why these actions matter, they are more than willing to support their peers.
The program's goal is to ensure every school and early learning centre becomes Allergy SMART!
Scroll below to learn more about The Food Allergy SMART Program
PROGRAMS
There are three programs:
- Food Allergy SMART Program - Childcare - Suitable for 3 - 5 year olds
- Food Allergy SMART Program - Schools - Suitable for prep - Grade 3 - 6
- Food Allergy SMART Program - Teachers/Educators
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The Food Allergy SMART Program Frequently Asked Questions supplied by My Food Allergy Friends
Where is the program available?
- Sydney
- Wollongong
- Melbourne
- Perth
- Brisbane
- Gold Coast
- Sunshine Coast
- Hervey Bay
- Northern Beaches Lismore
- SA - on demand
What are the differences in each program?
- Food Allergy SMART Program - Childcare - Suitable for 3 - 5 year olds
- Food Allergy SMART Program - Schools - Suitable for prep - Grade 3 - 6
- Food Allergy SMART Program - Teachers/Educators
For Childcare- What is covered in Food Allergy Awareness Sessions?
- One in 10 infants have allergies, they discuss the kinds of food allergies or other allergies people may have
- We talk about the most common 10 allergens, plus more
- We help kids become ‘Food Allergy Smart’ and to change their habits
- We discuss symptoms of an allergic reaction
- The importance of having an EpiPen/Anapen close by
- We explain why we wash hands and do not share food at kindy and school
- We talk about ways we can help our friends with allergies by including them and informing a teacher if they are sick
- Every child receives a certificate for attending our food allergy session.
- We read two stories, play a game and have craft for younger children available
- Childcare services receive our Allergy Childcare Pack
For School- What is covered in Food Allergy Awareness Sessions?
- One in 10 infants have allergies, we discuss the kinds of food allergies or environmental allergens
- We help students to become ‘Food Allergy Smart’
- We talk about the most common allergens
- We discuss symptoms of an allergic reaction
- The importance of having an EpiPen/Anapen close by
- We explain why we wash hands and do not share food at school
- We talk about ways we can help our friends with allergies by including them and informing a teacher if they are sick
- We get students talking about food allergy prevention and management
- Every student receives a certificate for attending our food allergy session
- Your school will be provided with 10 visual posters after the session to place around the school to promote allergy awareness.
- Includes three essential books (Birthday book, school book, ambulance book)
- Curriculum Guide for Teachers Book
- Craft/ activities for your classroom
- Teachers are also encouraged to continue discussion back in the classroom with our allergy quiz.
Can parents attend?
Yes, absolutely. We encourage schools to promote the Allergy SMART sessions in their newsletters. Parents, grandparents, and carers are all welcome to attend.
Are the sessions suitable for 2-year-olds?
No, the program is specifically designed for children aged 3–5 years, with a separate session for school-aged students. Each session runs for approximately 30 minutes. For 2-year-olds, we recommend using our birthday book and focusing on the visual elements to support their learning.
Do you visit other locations?
Yes, when there is enough demand. We have delivered sessions in New Zealand, Ararat, and the Yorkshire Peninsula in South Australia. If you're interested in hosting a session, please contact us to express interest for your area.
Can we book now for 2026?
Bookings open each year in September. We recommend joining our waitlist to secure your preferred month and time. This also gives you early access to our first release of available dates and helps us allocate locations based on demand.
What is the program aligned with?
Our program is aligned with the Australian Curriculum and has been reviewed by a leading Austrlalian Allergist and Immunologist.
Where can I find further information and book the program?
- Program Website: https://myfoodallergyfriends.com/school-allergy-program/ (External Link)
- Program Event Locations: https://myfoodallergyfriends.com/events-3/
- Shop: https://myfoodallergyfriends.com/shop/
- Email: info@myfoodallergyfriends.com
- Phone: 0415 440 050
This information was provided to Allergy Life Australia by My Food Allergy Friends. This Page was last updated on 11th July 2025.
