Allergies and asthma can make it difficult for a child to focus in class. Itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing and wheezing become more important and noticeable than the current class lesson. Sometimes these symptoms are persistent; medication might reduce them but also leave the student drowsy. Teachers can help these students by reducing as many common allergens in the classroom as possible.
Common Classroom Allergy Triggers
Many of the common allergens at home are also found in schools. The primary ones include pollen, mold, dust mites, and formaldehyde.
Pollen is seasonal but can easily find its way into school through doors, windows, and kid’s clothing. Mold can be difficult to keep under control year round, but may be heightened during winter or rainy months. Dust mites live inside fabrics and upholstery, which varies from classroom to classroom. Formaldehyde is a chemical found in many building supplies, household products, and some chemistry and biology supplies.
Cleaning Classroom to Minimize Allergens
Keeping classrooms clean is something teachers and custodians do daily, especially during flu season. Cleaning in order to minimize allergens requires only a little more care and attention.
Pollen can build up quickly during the spring. Regularly wash window sills and blinds as well as desks and counter tops to keep the levels low in the room. Any fabric curtains or wall hangings should also be washed every couple of weeks.
Dust mites can survive all year, especially in areas of high humidity. If there are rugs or carpet in the classroom, vacuum them daily and occasionally use a carpet cleaner designed to reduce allergens. Pillows and fabric covered chairs should also be cleaned regularly; pillows can be placed in allergen barrier covers and the cases washed instead.
Reducing Exposure to Mold and Formaldehyde
Mold and formaldehyde are more likely to be a building issue more than something a teacher can control in one classroom. Mold can build up in the ventilation ducts of a building, thus becoming airborne when the furnace or fan is on. Formaldehyde is present in adhesives, including carpet backing, floor polish, vinyl floors, paint, and even some liquid cleaners.
There are some things that can be done to reduce exposure to mold and formaldehyde. For mold, clean window areas where mold may grow and request air filters for any vents. Formaldehyde can be minimized by improving air flow in the room, using fans that exhaust air from the room so allergens, such as pollen, are not brought back in.
Though allergy triggers cannot be eliminated from a classroom, they can be reduced. Careful cleaning for pollen, mold and dust mites can help minimize their effect during class lessons, as does being aware of formaldehyde sources and working to reduce their potency. When steps are taken to reduce exposure to allergens, students with allergies and asthma will be able to focus more on class and less on their discomfort.
Reference:
Sublett, J. (Oct 20, 2009) “James Sublett, MD, Discusses Ways to Reduce Allergens and Irritants in Your Home”, Allergy & Asthma Network. Retrieved June 4, 2010.
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