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Skipping the Cupcakes

Are Kids with Food Allergies Safe at Birthday Parties?

By Alexandria Powell

It's important for parents planning the party to understand how painful it is to the child with food allergies when he or she is left out, says Nadine O'Reilly, author of Peter Can't Eat Peanuts (O'Reilly Publishing, Inc., 2006). "These kids may already feel isolated and left out," she says. "No child wants to stand out in that way, but they weren't given a choice."

O'Reilly's own son is allergic to peanuts. "Parents of kids with food allergies know how scary these allergies can be, yet we struggle to give our children normalcy," she says.

"I can't ask anyone to plan a party around Casey; that's not fair to their child," Gorab says. "This is the hand we've been dealt, and we'll play it ... All I hope for is that they are understanding and accommodate us when we are attending."

The first step in making sure your child's party is safe for all attendees is simply to ask. "When you are filling out the invitations, ask about allergies," Munoz-Furlong says. "Parents of a child with a food allergy are extremely grateful when they find someone who wants to help them keep their child safe." Just writing something like "If you have a food allergy, let us know" will open the discussion.

Next, know that parents of kids with food allergies have to be aware of everything that is going to be served at the party and any activities that may involve food, Harris says. It's important to check the ingredient labels of every food that will be served. Also be aware that many allergists recommend kids with food allergies avoid homemade baked goods, like cookies and cakes – there's simply too much potential for cross-contamination. Many parents feel most comfortable sending their children with their own, safe treats.

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!

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