This is a follow-up to two previous postings:  Coping with Food Allergies – Part 1 and

Coping with Food Allergies & Picky Eaters - Part 2.

Once you have your home life squared away, what happens when the control of your young child’s diet is no longer yours, such as when you drop him off at daycare or school?  It’s troubling to wonder if another caregiver will really understand your child’s allergy. 

Tips For Managing Food Allergies Away From Home

#1:

  Raise Awareness!  Quite frankly, raising awareness may be up to you, which will lead to a much more joyful experience.  Food will be a part of every daycare setting, and assume food will also be a part of every preschool or kindergarten classroom. 

#2:

  Become involved in your child's school as much as possible.  Most teachers appreciate parental support! 

#3:

  Talk to the teacher/daycare provider about your child’s allergy and create a letter to give other parents, informing them of your child’s food allergy. 

#4:

  Talk to the school/daycare about possibly offering allergy-free food alternatives for snacks or special classroom occasions.  Suggest parents only bring treats for sharing which are clearly labeled with the ingredients. 

#5:

  Offer to provide the teacher/caregiver a “how-to” video on using an epi-pen, and give the teacher/caregiver a detailed personalized management plan in case your child experiences a reaction.

These are only five ways to cope with a food allergy in your family.  The best course of action usually involves discussing with others what worked best in similar situations in order to determine the right course for your family. 

What are some helpful ideas which have worked for your family you might share with us on the blog?

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods