Kiddipedia
It’s really quite easy to make a child (or even an adult) with food allergies feel safe, included and welcome at a party that involves food. It’s our job as parents to teach our children to be kind and inclusive and this is a perfect way to show them how it’s done!
I’d like to challenge you today to make it as easy as possible for the parents of the child with food allergies. If your children don’t have allergies or intolerances, you probably won’t appreciate how grateful parents are for the small things you do. Just to turn up at a party without a whole heap of food, or even something as simple as leaving with a happy child because they can have what’s in the party bag is amazing! Truly ☺
These are some really simple ways you can help:
- Talk to the parent and find out what the allergies are and what they usually do for parties. Some children might be okay to just avoid their allergens and eat from what is available that you prepare, some parents might bring a couple of plates to share that their child can eat, and others may choose to bring their own food. If a child is really allergic to a particular food and can have anaphylaxis just by being touched, you may choose to not serve that food at the party. Let the parent guide you.
- A lot of parents of kids with food allergies will bring their own food. Let them know ahead of time what you will be serving so that they can provide something similar
- Don’t make a fuss of the child with allergies when they arrive – treat them like every other guest
- Make sure the parent feels welcome to stay. If the child is left in your care, ensure that parents show you how to use the Epi-Pen if they have one and that you feel confident to use it if required. Make sure you tell the parents if not so they stay
- Use prizes and treats that aren’t food for games and party bags such as bubbles, stickers, pens, pads of paper etc. Another idea is to discuss the party bag with the parent. For a couple of parties I’ve been to the parents have supplies trinkets etc like the other kids and I have given them a few safe lollies to put in my sons bag. He’s always so impressed when he opens the bag and can eat what’s in it!
- Keep any empty food packets so that the parent of a child with food allergies can check the ingredients lists
- It’s really important to be careful of cross contamination. If a child with food allergies will be eating from the table, ensure that they take all of their food first and then don’t go back for seconds once the other guests have touched the food. It’s also a good idea to get everyone to wash their hands before and after eating.
So that’s it. Really simple ways that everyone can be safely included at parties.
You might also like to read:
10 fun Christmas traditions to enjoy with your kids
Celebrate the Magic of a Perfect Aussie Christmas With ALDI.
