Different systems. Different rules. Same life threatening risk.

For years, states across the country have worked to improve anaphylaxis preparedness in K to 12 schools. Laws now commonly require staff training and allow or mandate stocked epinephrine. These policies save lives. Yet there is a quiet and dangerous gap in protection for children in childcare centers. The reason is not neglect. It is structure.

K to 12 schools are state run systems with established health policies, trained personnel, and legal frameworks that support medication administration. School nurses, standing medical orders, and Good Samaritan protections make it possible for staff to respond quickly in an emergency.

Childcare centers exist in a different world. They are often privately licensed, regulated through departments that do not mirror educational or medical systems, and serve very young children who cannot always communicate their symptoms. Many centers do not have medical staff, standing orders, or clarity about who can administer epinephrine in an emergency.

But anaphylaxis does not pause to consider regulatory differences. It happens in seconds. It happens to infants and toddlers. It happens in snack time, craft time, and play time. Sometime these reaction are unknown. Food allergy safety is not just a school issue. It is a community issue. If we believe children deserve protection when they enter kindergarten, then we must believe they deserve the same protection when they enter childcare for the first time. Preparedness should begin where childhood begins.

If you are ready to bring Elijah’s Law to your state, connect with us and we will walk with you.

.https://www.elijahalavifoundation.org/elijah-s-law-toolkit