Page 88 - The Ultimate Guidebook for Teens with Food Allergies

After that, I became increasingly worried about my food allergies. I retreated back to eating alone and refrained from eating during snack time and going out for recess for quite a while. I became self- conscious and embarrassed about my allergies. It made me feel isolated and alone.
Looking back on the event, I feel that the school and the parents needed to reinforce the seriousness of food allergies to both students and parents to create a better understanding for everyone involved.
Quick Tip - Your parents are always there for you if you are ever receiving unwanted attention or being bullied at school. Tell them early on what’s happening and they can help you problem solve.
What would you say? (Q&A)
Emily Rose, Giulia, and Sophia
Have you ever been bullied because of your allergies? What happened?
Emily Rose - I was bullied mostly when I was younger. In grade five people used to toss wrappers at me
of things I couldn’t eat. As well, I would not be invited to birthday parties because of my allergy.
Giulia - When I was in elementary school, the students used to blame me because the school was nut- free. They thought it was my fault that they weren’t allowed to bring peanuts or nut products into the school because of my allergy.
Sophia – I was bullied when I was in grade three and went to a new school. The kids would laugh and say: “Pumpkin seeds?! Yeah, right!” And I remember one girl bringing pumpkin seeds to class and shaking the bag in front of my face. Then she said she asked her mom to pack them for her because they’re her favourite snack. Kids can be so mean!
When did you experience the most severe bullying?
Emily Rose - One time, in grade six, there was this boy who brought in something with peanuts in it for a holiday party. The teacher asked him to put it away. He didn’t listen. He ended up making a big deal about it and getting called down to the principal’s office. He yelled at me and said he didn’t care if I died.
Giulia – It definitely was in elementary school. In elementary school, when you’re a little different, the other students can really taunt you about it. It’s also the age where people will do anything to fit in.
Sophia – It was probably from grade 3 up until grade 6. I think, when kids grow older, they care more about learning about their peers. And they realize what someone their age having a severe allergy really means.