quick clicks

preschoolers today articles

preschoolers today q&a

children today articles

children today q&a

message boards

research baby names

prepare a birth plan

content channels

ip channel rss feeds

read birth stories

read parenting stories

recommended books

e-newsletters

safety recalls

ip diaries

ip store

mom of the month

dad of the month

editor's letter

letters to the editor

Skipping the Cupcakes

Are Kids with Food Allergies Safe at Birthday Parties?

By Alexandria Powell

"Some people feel that if they are not providing food and drink to their guests, then they are being bad hosts," says Erica*, a Chicago mom of two whose preschool-aged son, Collin, is allergic to milk. "For us, it's almost the opposite! There are lots of ways to miss an allergen or contaminate food [during preparation]. For me, it's too big of a risk. Although their gesture is very appreciated, I turn down their food unless I can be sure it is safe."

Some parents try to avoid the "eating" parts of the party altogether, arriving during the social part – the games and the treats – then leaving when food is served, Munoz-Furlong says.

It's also a good idea to reconsider just how food oriented kids' parties have to be. "Goody or favor bags are often filled with candy," Harris says. "Little trinkets are just as much fun as a bag of candy, and they last longer."

Finally, know that most parents of kids with food allergies like to be used as a resource. If you have questions or concerns, Harris says, just ask.

"We have to remember that food allergy is increasing and that this is not going to go away any time soon," Munoz-Furlong says. "But if we all work together we can keep these children safe until there is a cure."

* Last name withheld to protect privacy.

Want to see more?

• Check out our Article Library.
• A Year Without Milk Products: Breastfeeding the Child with Cow's Milk Allergies
• Coping with Food Allergies: Helpful Hints from Specialists at Texas Children's Hospital
• Don't Pass the Peanuts: Peanut Allergies and Breastfeeding
• Talk about it!