When my oldest daughter received a solid diagnosis of the various food allergies, I had no idea how daunting the task of keeping others from giving her food was going to be. Oddly enough, no matter how involved you are as a parent, sometimes you just don't realize all the "hidden dangers" until they become a true danger.
Every once in a while, without much concern, most parents gladly turn their children over to trusted family or friends for a fun-filled day. For us, we would hand our kids over with a book-sized list of what to and what NOT to feed our children - then we worried, waited and hoped nothing would happen. Its was far from relaxing, or fun-filled for anyone. Over the years we have made changes to allow for a more relaxing time for everyone, caretakers included. This post includes some of those tips.
First and foremost, when dropping your children with someone that will be watching them make sure you explain in detail what they are allergic to, list everything! I like to carry this list separate and hand it directly to my child's care taker. On the list, in full detail, explain what an allergic reaction looks like. If your child gets hives, turns red, or scratches their eyes profusely write it down.
**Make sure on the list you include medicine doses if any are needed. Also include doses for any anti-histamines you use in the event of an allergic reaction, as well as your phone numbers!!
Secondly, purchase or make a bracelet (see links in highlighted print below) or sticker here for your child. There are all kinds of possibilities: they come in styles from frilly or jewelry like , to practical like this. Our daughter wears a water proof bracelet that has a metal medical stamp on it. It's adjustable in size and easy for her to put on and take off - thereby allowing her to be in control!
If you are able to, I suggest you buy a couple variations. This will give your child a choice and you'll be sure to have "extras" on hand in the event that you misplace one. Trust me, it's inevitable that you'll be looking for the bracelet at some point when you are running out the door late, a second one is always a nice option to fall back on!
Pack food for your child for "snack time". I bring a snack that is for my girls only. I mark their name on it and place it in their personal bags for them to access when it is time to eat. They know that the food they are eating is different, but most of the time that isn't a concern. The majority of the time, my children are more concerned with the fact that they can participate in the "event" not so much partake of the actual food.
Review with your child if they are old enough, what foods they can and cannot have, ahead of time. (see my previous post on teaching tips here) When you are headed to the care takers, remind them of how it is important they not eat or handle certain foods.
There is no way to explain how difficult it is to leave your child with another individual if they are a kid with allergies. I understand the insecurity, all too well. I hope the ideas above help make the transition easier and allow you to find some solutions to possible problems you may run into.
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