How to Safely Send Your Food Allergic Child to a Birthday Party

Attending birthday parties are a part of childhood. If, however, you are the parent of a child with food allergies, the prospect of sending your child off to a party full of treats and goodies can be unnerving. Instead of keeping your child at home, follow these tips below so your kids can enjoy this wonderful part of childhood.

1. Call the host parents.

Explain the reason for your call, so the host parent understands the issue and extent of your child's food allergy problem. Do not assume the parent knows anything about the food allergies just because his or her child shares the same classroom with yours.

Be clear about the type of reaction that could occur if a trigger food were inadvertently ingested, and what the parent should do if it happens.

Allow the host parent to rescind the invitation at this point, if they are not comfortable with the responsibility of your child's attendance at their party. This may seem harsh for your child, but it could save a lot of trouble in the end.

2. Find out the food details.

Find out what foods and drinks will be served, and whether they will be served to each individual child, or served buffet style. Free access to food may be major safety problem for your child.

3. Offer to make or buy an alternative food and/or drink for your child.

Do not expect a parent hosting fifteen five year olds to change the menu based on your child's specific needs. Instead, offer to bake or bring an acceptable alternative, clearly labeled with your child's name. There are several brands of baked goods on grocery store shelves now that are safe for children with various food allergies.

4. Send lists with your child.

You've packed the birthday present but did you remember the food allergy help list?

Give the host parent something to refer to by including a list of all food allergies along with foods that you know will be at the party (thanks to Number 2 above) marked as to safe or not safe for your child's consumption.