(BPT) - With school back in session and the long holiday season right around the corner, you might be asked about bringing treats in for your child to share with the classroom. You’ll probably want to roll up your sleeves and dig through the recipe file for the yummiest treat you can find. Before you get started, be certain to find out if there are any children with food allergies in the classroom and the school.

Food is a very important part of the school day – from snacks and treats to the lunch hour, but children with food allergies could face extreme consequences if they come in contact with certain foods. All states have laws governing how schools protect students and employees with allergies and asthma, but these laws vary from state to state.  Each year the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) releases its State Honor Roll of Asthma and Allergy Policies for Schools, recognizing those states that are at the forefront of establishing policies, and pointing out other states that don’t yet make-the-grade. Check out what laws and policies have been established in your state at www.StateHonorRoll.org.

Also keep the guidelines from your state in mind as you purchase or make treats for your child’s classroom from Halloween all the way to Valentine’s Day: