Should families forego going to restaurants, birthday parties, etc?
Should the child always bring her own food? AM-F: There is no reason families should let their food allergies stop them from going to restaurants, visiting friends or attending birthday parties. The key here is to plan ahead. Call the restaurant and ask about ingredients or visit their Web site to be sure there is something your child can eat. When visiting other peoples homes, tell them in advance about the food allergy. Offer to bring food with you so you know your child will not go hungry and you dont have to worry about a reaction. As children get older, some opt to leave before food is served during a party; others eat before leaving home and simply enjoy the games and activities without worrying about the safety of the food being served. Involve the child in making these decisions and always carry a snack with you in case you are delayed or having so much fun you dont want to leave the party. SC: Are there tips for working with your children so that they don’t feel deprived and r
