Back to School Tips for Allergy Moms and Dads
1. If you haven’t done so already, it’s not too late to talk to your child’s teacher and school administrators about your child’s food allergies. It’s best to start with a letter from your child’s allergist explaining the allergies and any restrictions.
2. Using the recommendations from your child’s allergist, create a Food Allergy Action Plan(FAAP), or Individual Health Care Plan (IHCP) to document your child’s allergies and how your child needs to be treated for allergic reactions.
3. Find out if your state and/or school district has a food allergy policy. If so, you may still need to add other accommodations to keep your child safe and included. If they do not have a written policy, you will want to work with your child’s teacher and school administrators to determine how your child will be accommodated and how to minimize the risk of exposure to your child.
4. Ask to review classroom supplies, including materials for Art and Science projects and find out if the teacher will be using any type of food rewards.
5. There is often much more food at school than most adults realize. Discuss how your child can be kept safe and included during snack time, lunchtime, birthday celebrations, classroom parties, field trips, assemblies or school wide activities.
6. There must always be an adult trained in recognizing and treating allergic reactions available to assist your child. Make sure that your child’s medicine is quickly accessible in an unlocked location.
7. An anaphylaxis drill is a terrific idea for training others in an emergency where quick action can save lives. Emergency procedures for areas outside the classroom such as recess, the bus ride and field trips should also be discussed and agreed upon.
8. Some parents like to send in a “safe snack” box for their child in the event that an unsafe treat is being served to the other students. You can keep safe candies, like Enjoy life chocolate bars, cookies and a few safe juice boxes there for these occasions.
9. Better yet, encourage snacks and treats that allow all children to be served and included. All kids want to be “One of the Gang”!
Back to School Tips for Classroom Parents
1. If you’re sending food for the class to share, check with the teacher first. Keep in mind that it’s probably best to send in a prepackaged product with an ingredient label. Food allergies can result in serious and even fatal reactions caused by tiny amounts of everyday foods. Home baked goods are usually not an option for food allergic children.
2. If certain foods are restricted from the classroom, carefully read all labels and make sure to abide by these guidelines. Some allergic children can react to just contact with their allergens. In addition, children can pick up traces of allergens and then put their fingers in their eyes or mouth. This is enough to cause a reaction in some allergic children.
3. Never use “common sense” to determine if a food is safe. Candy can contain milk, egg, wheat, peanuts or nuts. Pie crusts, granola bars and ice cream can contain egg, nuts and peanuts. Even jelly beans can contain peanut flour.
4. Consider sending in “safe” treats or snacks so that every child in the classroom can partake of birthday celebrations or classroom parties. All kids love goodies and it’s very hard to be the little guy or girl who never gets to have a birthday cupcake.
Back to School Tips for Teachers
1. Set the stage for inclusion. Make sure that birthday celebrations, classroom parties and school wide activities include safe foods for all classmates.
2. Consider keeping the classroom free of the allergens for that class. After all, the purpose of school is learning and it will be so much easier for you and your food allergic students when you do not have to fear contact or cross-contamination reactions.
3. Enforce a “no sharing food” rule, especially if allergens are permitted in the classroom. Children are tactile, oral and socialized to share. Allowing allergens in the classroom can contaminate it and some allergens are so potent that even trace amounts can cause a reaction—especially when little fingers go into the eyes or mouth.
4. Communicate with the allergy parents. Most allergy parents are more than willing to provide safe suggestions or alternatives for parties, crafts and more. If you have any doubt at all, call!
5. Communicate with all the classroom parents. Without disclosing private medical information, you can still find ways to make sure that snacks and treats that come into the classroom can be shared safely. Focus on the food and drink that is safe plan your celebrations from there. Even with multiple food allergies, there are still plenty of delicious treats available to share.
Tips provided by Gina Clowes, author of One of the Gang : Nurturing the Souls of Children with Food Allergies, is founder of www.AllergyMoms.com the award winning blog and online support group for mothers of children with food allergies.
Obtain nutritious and SAFE school lunches with a 504 Plan
If your child has food allergies, food intolerances, Celiac Disease or other health concerns that require him/her to follow a special diet, you have a good sense for how challenging it can be to obtain nutritious and SAFE school lunches.
According to a recent study by the American Celiac Disease Alliance (ACDA), over 90% of parents whose children have Celiac Disease send their child to school with gluten-free meals rather than relying on the school to provide them. Many parents aren’t sure how to approach the issue with their child’s school, while others are told that the school is not required to provide gluten-free eals. We know it’s a confusing (but very important) issue so Enjoy Life, together with the ACDA, has created a fact sheet to help educate you and your child’s school on the topic of school lunches and special diets. Learn more, with our School Lunches Fact Sheet.
The ABCs for a Safe Valentine's Day Party
There's a lot of love to share this Valentine's Day. Click here for our tips for a Safe Valentine's Day Party.
Looking for fun, tasty recipes that everyone can enjoy? Visit our recipe page for some NEW scrumptious Valentine's Day recipe ideas featuring our boom CHOCO boom bars!
Thanks to Gina Clowes from Allergy Moms for providing these useful tips!
Suggestions for Stocking your Holiday Pantry
Holiday baking can be tough, especially when you're avoiding wheat, gluten, dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, egg and soy! That's why we've created a list of allergy-friendly ingredients. Make sure your holiday pantry is stocked with what you need. Click here for our suggestions.
Looking for fun, tasty recipes that everyone can enjoy? Visit our recipe page for some scrumptious ideas.
A gluten-free, dairy-free Thanksgiving...suggestions from a fellow allergy-mom
Perhaps the toughest holiday to celebrate while living gluten/allergen-free was Thanksgiving the first time around. With a breadcrumb-stuffed turkey, how could we ever manage?! We started with the “keep it simple” principle.
First, we evaluated what, of all the Thanksgiving day delights, were “must haves” and we worked from there. I found that we could use some of our favorite recipes with a few minor changes.
The first year living gluten/allergen-free, we cooked our favorite items and brought them to my Mom’s house to avoid cross-contamination.
The second year, we invited family to our home, which began our traditional gluten- and allergen-free Thanksgiving. We asked everyone to prepare their items at our house and use our substitutions for the Thanksgiving Day meal. It really helped “train” our family and familiarize them with our cooking practices and substitutions.
Last year, we got really brave and also invited friends to Thanksgiving dinner. We asked them to make sides that were less worrisome when considering gluten contamination, like mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes with marshmallows (Kraft), green beans sautéed in olive oil, salad without breadcrumbs and fruit.
Our core meal (based on our family’s “gluten free Thanksgiving must-haves”) consisted of…
Turkey with gluten-free/allergen-free stuffing
Mashed potatoes
Green beans
Sweet potatoes with marshmallows
Pies include: apple, pumpkin, and our new favorite - chocolate crème made with Gluten Free Pantry’s pie crust or Miss Roben’s pie crust
Ener-G dinner rolls
Click here for our family’s favorite gluten-free/dairy-free (and free of some other top allergens) Thanksgiving recipes.
Allergy-aware Tips for Halloween
Make trick-or-treating safe and fun for EVERYONE with these helpful tips for being allergy-aware this Halloween. Print out several copies and share with friends and neighbors to keep your little ones safe while trick ot treating.
For parents of food allergic trick-or-treaters, we've created additional tips to incorporate into your Halloween planning. For your Halloween quick-tips list, click here.
We also have some addtional suggestions from a fellow allergy-aware mom. Jane offers ideas for planning your trick-or-treating, working around parties and fun activites that kids of all ages can enjoy. Learn more.
Thanks to Gina Clowes from Allergy Moms and Jane Roberts for providing these useful tips!
10 things families with food allergies want you to know!
Thanks to Gina Clowes from allergymoms.com for providing these great tips for spending time with friends and family. To read the 10 things allergy moms want people to know click here.
eating for health
It's easy to read labels for allergens alone, and forget about the other stuff that you should (or should not) eat. Lots of allergy-friendly products are loaded with hydrogenated oils and refined white sugar, so even though they're "safe," they may not be good for you. Read all the ingredients to make sure.
Also, eliminating allergens can mean losing out on important nutrients. Be sure to eat lots of fruits and veggies and look for allergy-friendly foods that are higher in fiber and fortified with vitamins and minerals. A nutritionist can help you make sure you're getting what you need.
avoiding contamination & staying safe
The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires all manufacturers to identify the big 8 allergens (wheat, dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, soy, fish and shellfish) in plain English on their packages.
Use caution with products packaged prior to January 2006 as they may not be FALCPA compliant. If you see a label error, please report it to the FDA in your home state (see www.FDA.gov for a listing of local numbers). This law does not regulate foods sold at fairs, deli counters and restaurants, so be careful and ask questions!
Use the following tips to help stay safe.
in stores:
- GROCERY: Avoid buying food from bulk bins, which can often be contaminated by shared containers and scoops.
- DELI: Ask to have deli slicer cleaned before preparing your order. Think twice before ordering prepared foods as they often share bins and serving utensils. Request that clean gloves be worn.
- ICE CREAM SHOPS: Make sure they don't share scoops for different flavors.
- SALAD BARS: Steer clear if you have a severe allergy. Food can drop from one container into another at any time.
- PACKAGED FOODS: Opt for foods made in dedicated facilities, or at minimum those that employ strict allergen procedures. Re-read labels often as ingredients may change. If you are ever unsure, call the manufacturer.
in restaurants:
- AVOID "HIGH RISK" RESTAURANTS i.e., seafood dives for fish/shellfish allergies; Asian eateries for nuts/peanut and fish/shellfish allergies.
- CALL AHEAD if possible and consult the chef on best menu picks for safe dining. If it's a good restaurant they will work with you!
- BE ASSERTIVE in explaining your situation to wait staff. Let them know that eating even a small amount of a certain food(s) will make you severely ill and-if applicable-could lead to death.
- AVOID FRIED FOODS which often share oil with other problem foods.
- BE CAREFUL of sauces and soups. Make sure you know exactly what's in them before eating.
- SAY THANK YOU! The chef and staff will remember the courtesy.
don't worry, eat happy!
It's smart to ask a lot of questions before taking your first bite, especially if the food on your plate is a common allergen source (see below). This list may not be all-inclusive. Make sure to do your own research and ask questions if you are unsure!
egg
COMMON SOURCES INCLUDE:
-
Baby food
-
Baked goods
-
Bouillon/consomme
-
Candy (nougat, white chocolate)
-
Cosmetics, hygiene products
-
Ice cream
-
Mayonnaise
-
Meringue
-
Pasta
-
Processed meat
-
Salad dressings (Caesar)
-
Sauces (hollandaise, béarnaise, newburg)
-
Specialty coffee
-
White wine
DID YOU KNOW egg washes are often used on bakery goods to make them look shiny? Eggs are often used in glazes and icing too.
REVISING RECIPES:
There are healthy alternatives that work just as well eggs. For each egg required, whisk together 1 Tbsp flaxseed with 3 Tbsp water for 2-3 minutes. Also try 1/4 cup mashed banana or apple sauce with 2 Tbsp oil.
MAKING A MEAL:
Breakfast out can seem daunting but your protein rich options are still plentiful. Choose from oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, bacon, scrambled tofu, or hash browns with vegetables, meat or cheese (just make sure it’s prepared on a clean surface). And don’t forget the fruit salad!
dairy/casein
COMMON SOURCES INCLUDE:
- Artificial butter flavor
- Baby food
- Baked goods
- Breaded foods
- Candy, chocolate
- Canned fish
- Caramel color, flavor
- Cosmetics, hygiene products
- Dressings
- Mayonnaise
- Margarine
- Medication, supplements
- "Non-dairy" substitutes
- Nougat
- Processed meat
- Puddings, custards
- Sauces
- Soy cheese
- Sherbet
DID YOU KNOW margarine made from vegetable oil and cheese made from soy or rice often contain whey or caseinates?
REVISING RECIPES:
For each cup cow’s milk, use 3/4-1 cup water, broth (if savory recipe), or milk alternative. Use 1 cup casein-free margarine or 7/8 cup vegetable oil for 1 cup butter.
MAKING A MEAL:
Pureed potatoes or toasted nuts can make your soup taste creamy. Baked, mashed butternut squash adds richness to your pastas and enchiladas. You won’t miss the cheese when you top with avocado or seeds. Choose calcium-rich foods (i.e., dark leafy greens, almonds, salmon with bones) and fortified drinks whenever possible.
soy
COMMON SOURCES INCLUDE:
- Baby food
- Baked goods
- Canned fish
- Chocolates (cream centers)
- Cooking oils
- Cosmetic, hygiene products
- Expeller and cold-pressed vegetable oil
- High protein bars, foods
- Ice cream
- Margarine
- Mayonnaise
- Meat products
- Powdered meal replacers
- Sauces (Asian, gravy, soy, Worcestershire)
- Seasoned salt
- Shortenings
- Stabilizers
- Thickeners
DID YOU KNOW many high protein bars & foods get their "power" from soy? If the label is unclear, call the manufacturer before snacking.
REVISING RECIPES:
Beans, nuts and seeds make wonderfully nutritious vegetarian substitutes for soy. Asian flavors can be created using ingredients such as rice wine, rice wine vinegar, fresh ginger and sesame oil. Or make soy-free "soy sauce" by mixing 8 oz molasses with 3 oz balsamic vinegar and a little sugar.
MAKING A MEAL:
Though the vegetarian standbys (tofu, miso, and tempeh) are off-limits, lentils and beans are a great protein source and an excellent way to get that "meaty" texture.
For non-legume protein alternatives, try quinoa, amaranth and sorghum. Delicious veggie burgers can be made from a combination of nuts, alternative grains, beans and vegetables.
wheat/gluten
COMMON SOURCES INCLUDE:
- Baby food
- Baked goods, baking mixes
- Beer
- Breaded foods
- Candy (chocolate bars, licorice)
- Cereals
- Cosmetic, hygiene products
- Flavored coffees and teas
- Fried Foods
- Imitation seafood and bacon
- Sauces (Asian, gravy, soy)
- Malted milk shakes
- Medications, supplements
- Pastas
- Processed meats
- Roux
- Snack foods
- Soups (canned, cubes, dried)
DID YOU KNOW many popular corn and rice cereals are sweetened with barley malt, and therefore are not gluten-free?
REVISING RECIPES:
Gluten-free flour blends can be bought pre-mixed, or made out of varying flour combinations (see www.enjoylifefoods.com for recipes). Gluten-free pizza crusts and breads keep your favorite foods in your diet - just make sure to choose products that are vitamin-fortified and certified gluten-free.
MAKING A MEAL:
Stock up on healthy gluten-free cereals, pasta, bagels, breads and snacks. Bring them with you when you are on the go so you can eat what you want when you want it. Meeting the recommended 3 whole grain servings per day is not impossible when wheat-free! Choose foods made with fiber-rich flax, sorghum, rice bran, wild rice, amaranth, buckwheat, or beans.
peanuts/tree nuts
COMMON SOURCES INCLUDE:
- Alcohol (frangelico, amaretto)
- Asian foods
- Baked goods
- Baking mixes
- Battered or fried foods
- Candy
- Cereals
- Chili
- Crackers
- Ice cream
- Milk formula
- Mortadella
- Nut butter
- Pesto; vegetable fat, oil
- Sauces, gravies (peanut often used as thickener)
- Soups (mostly dried)
DID YOU KNOW peanut butter may be used to keep egg rolls from falling apart, or in chili as a thickener?
REVISING RECIPES:
Use nut-free granola and crunchy cereals for toppings and texture in baked goods (make sure they are made in a nut-free facility!). Clean sources of sunflower butter, tahini, and soy butter are becoming more readily available.
MAKING A MEAL:
Who needs PB&J when there's hummus-n-avocado or turkey-n-cheese? (Just make sure the bread is made in a nut-free bakery). Stock your purse or backpack with nut-free snack bars, trail mix, cookies, and fresh fruit so you can safely satisfy the munchies when they hit.
fish/shellfish
COMMON SOURCES INCLUDE:
- Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, Indian, Indonesian and Thai foods
- Caesar salad
- Fried foods, i.e., french fries, chicken nuggets (often cooked in the same oil as fish/shellfish)
- Imitation crab
- Omega 3 supplements
- Worcestershire sauce
DID YOU KNOW imitation crab or "Surimi", though not made of real crustaceans, is made from white fish and not safe for people with seafood allergies?
REVISING RECIPES:
Beans, nuts, eggs, soy and lean meats are the best replacement for fish on your plate. Soy sauce can be used in place of fish sauce when preparing Asian dishes. Ground flaxseed is a fish-free way to get your Omega 3's.
MAKING A MEAL:
Breaded and fried or broiled tofu can double as fish sticks. Lean meats will keep your baked potato company. Homemade veggie sushi makes a fun snack. Thinly pounded poultry and soy-based substitutes can mimic fish's texture in your favorite recipes.
helping your child stay safe...
- Prepare school lunches that are similar to what the other kids are eating.
- Plan ahead to assure that there is a treat your child can safely eat at parties.
- Check out camps for kids with celiac disease or food allergies.
- Make sure friends, parents, teachers and coaches understand the necessity of your child's diet and know the appropriate action to take should your child have an allergic reaction.
- Build a network of parents who can share your concerns and successes.
If you found our tips and hints helpful, you can click here to request a Food Allergy & Intolerance Survival Guide. It's an informative and friendly pamphlet that is easy to carry with you and it's also a helpful resource for friends and family who are unfamiliar with food allergies/intolerances. Click here to download a PDF of our Survival Guide.
